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I'm sorry to say that my knowledge of outboards is very limited. I know that they need gas, oil and water. Thus far I've been lucky that my old Yammies have always worked pretty well.
On my 1986 90hp Yamaha I just noticed that there is water coming out of the top of lower unit (where the shift rod exits?). The tell tale still has a strong stream, but it seems a bit odd to me that there is leakage in this area.

It may be unrealated, but the engine has been a bit off the past 2 times out. It will start fine and get underway no problem. After about 5 mins it will run really rough and then stall. Last time I got it started right away and after running at high RPMs for 1-2 mins it seemed to work itself out. I then ran for an hour, shut down for an hour and then went through this whole thing again when I started her back up to go home. That situation kind of feels like gas isn't reaching the engine at first. When I stall it sounds like I just ran out of fuel. Funny...

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Hi BL,

I have 90 Yamie as well... Water being ejected out of that location at the shift shaft near front of the lower unit is normal. Question is how do you see this in while in the water running ... :o

The gas situation sound like contaminated fuel. I would closely inspect every line and connection for leaks. (make sure the vent on the tank is open, even experienced boaters sometimes forget) If you have not changed your fuel line and bulb in a few years now would be a good time.

1) If you have water separator, empty the contents into a glass jar and inspect it. If you have 2 different fluids it will separate and you know you have a problem. Gas always stays on the surface. If it is a cloudy mess also an issue. Means bad gas or problems with the tank. Need to switch tanks.

2) If you are somewhat mechanically inclined you should drain and clean the little plastic bowl and filter on the right side behind the oil resivior, be careful not to loose the nut and keep a few paper towels around as fuel will drip out. I would check the contents of that as well.

3) If you comfortable enough, drain the carbs, by opening the brass nut on the lower half of each carb. (this is on the opposite side of the engine) You do not need to completely remove them, just let the stuff drain out onto paper towels. Do not drop the nuts.

4) Now switch tanks with fresh fuel, I would also add an additive called SeaFoam at a high concentration, available at most auto supply shops.

If this does not clear your problem then you may need to have the carbs completely cleaned and overhauled.

Does sound like contamination to me... May also be a good idea to get a shop manual.

BTW I looked at you pictures, very nice boat. Perhaps you could post some of them on this site...B)

Good luck

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Thanks for the advice and kind words about the boat! I would post pics on the site but not really sure how to do that.

So you are saying that water coming out of the top is ok and it's something that has always happened and I just never noticed it?

All gas lines are new and I do keep the vent open -- I'll try new gas and Seafoam. Should the bulb always be hard when running, or just when pumped prior to starting?

Thanks again!!!!

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Yes,

The exhaust manifold and muffler extend down to that point and also release gases and water.

The bulb should stay a little firm (not necessarily super hard) while running. I rarely prime mine but do occasionally check.

One other thing, your fuel issue could also be caused by a worn fuel pump. Although it sounds like bad fuel to me. These pumps can fail after a few years of use. The diaphragms stretch or tear. This is not an expensive part, $40... easy to replace.

As far as pictures, there is a guide on this site on how to post pictures...:p Joe Kriz can assist. Joe please chime in if you read this.

Good luck

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Busch -

To attach photos, you have two choices.

1) Upload to a photo site like photobucket, then link see FAQ Article

2) Select Post reply (not Quick) and attach a photo from your computer. Note the size limit.

If you need additional assistance, let me know.