Posted by jflots on 03/11/13 - 5:56 AM
#1
Our new to us 18 Outrage has been sitting lifeless for about 12 years. I had the starter rebuilt, gave it a fresh battery, a little starting fluid and it fired. Since then I rebuilt the carburetors, fuel pump, replaced all hoses under the cowling, water pump impellor, and new spark plugs. I also ran Power Tune through it. Now it's a hard start when cold and is running very roughly at idle and with throttle. It seems like it's getting too much fuel so I checked the jets with the manual and it's unclear what they should be. Currently the main jets are .060 and the idle jets are .050. These came on the motor but down't match the book.
Any thoughts or advise would be appreciated. thanks
Posted by Finnegan on 03/11/13 - 9:52 AM
#2
I have that identical 1988 Merc engine, in 150HP version, on my Outrage 19. It is smooth and powerful, and starts instantly with a great idle sound. I would take it to a good Mercury servicing dealership and have them check it out in detail. Chances are not good that anybody will be able to correctly diagonose your problems over the web without actually seeing the engine.
Posted by jflots on 03/11/13 - 10:52 AM
#3
I figured that. I talked to a local shop this morning who could have it back to me by the weekend...they say. I hate paying their labor rate though. thanks
Posted by Tom W Clark on 03/11/13 - 10:16 PM
#4
I agree with Larry. It could be any number of little things but you could spend all summer trying to diagnose it online. A good outboard mechanic is worth the money if he gets you on the water this weekend.