Starting...Choking 89 85HP

[gotzoom]

Hello all,<br />I recently ran into another issue with my 85HP. Normally it will start after 1-3 cranks, but the last 2 times I had it out it woudlnt start and eventually killed the battery (the bulb is new and was hard). The battery is from 1997..I know, old right? Anyway, I did use my portable jump box and it started after the second crank. I am in the proccess of rebuling the fuel pump and getting a new battery. My question is should I be choking when the motor is cold and should I be hearing a click when choking? I have never noticed any noise when choking and want to make sure to listen in the future. Other than replacing the battery and rebuliding the fuel pump, does anyone have any other insight on the matter? Im hoping its just a very weak battery causing the issue. Thanks in advance.

 

[themichelob]

Re: Starting...Choking 89 85HP

Gotzoom,<br />My 1985 85HP Force has always seemed a little "cold blooded" requiring the bulb squeezed 'til hard and the use of the choke for the initial start-up of the day. And yes!!, you should hear a click when you depress the key to choke it. Hope this helps..<br />Regards, Mike

 

[imported_LakeRunner]

Re: Starting...Choking 89 85HP

You should keep the battery on a maintenance charger when not in use. That will keep it at peak performance. Nine years from a battery is really pushing it. You should be replacing the battery every 36 to 48 months even with good maintenance. Unless of course you are using an Optima or a Diehard. Cells will go bad when least expect it.

 

[gotzoom]

Re: Starting...Choking 89 85HP

Well I replaced the battery last night and checked for the clicking noise when using the choke. For not being able to ever hear it before, I can sure hear it now with the new battery hooked up. Hopefully this was the issue. Thanks guys...