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1983 Outrage 18 with twin 70 hp Yamahas,starboard motor runs/starts fine,port one is a pita to start,just cranks and cranke till it eventually ,sometimes after 10 mins starts,then runs fine the rest of the day. It has new fuel filters,plugs, and this weekend I took off the airbox and it actually fires up relatively quick? Any ideas? The airbox seems clear? Thanks,Jerry

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When you say it fires up relatively quick with the airbox off, do you mean from a dead cold start? And when you say it runs fine the rest of the day, it starts normally when warm?

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Yes form a dead start,after sitting overnight. And yes again it starts normally when warm.

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Any chance a compression test was done when you bought the boat?

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negative

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How long has this been a problem? Last time the carb was cleaned, adjusted? What is your procedure for a cold start on this and the other engine?

Two thoughts:

1) electrical - Are the battery cables recent? Check for a hidden splice or loose/dirty connections. (Had a cold start issue with my Yamaha 90)

2)Carb/choke setting: Maybe the carb is misadjusted so there
is too much fuel.

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I think if it were a battery cable the starter motor wouldnt be cranking the motor? I think your probably right on with the carb mixture adjustments. Ill also check the grounds.
Thanks,Jerry

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Jerry - If there is a poor electrical connection, the engine may not get the minimum voltage to start. While it may turn over and sound fine, no start. Can't hurt to check.

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maybe you have a vapor lock issue and need a carb adjustment

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Just an update,I changed the fuel filters which seemed to help the starting problem. The next weekend I was out runnung 50% throttle and the motor started clanging and making squeaking sounds,loss of power! So I shut it down and will trouble shoot it this weekend.I ended up limping back on the other motor,thank God for 2 motors.

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Sounds like a wrist pin or a bearing has given up the ghost. Trouble with a capital T. I feel for you.

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Exactly,spun a bearing,now do rebuild ? sell the boat? The compression was 100/110/110. Not that bad,and the motor is immaculate,Im just not a fan of rebuilt motors. I question their reliability and longevity?

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I don't have any experience with rebuilt outboards. I've rebuilt a few automotive engines with good success. And being inquisitive and something of a cheapskate, if I had the time I would probably tear into that old Yamaha and see what I could do. But, as you know, it's an arm and a leg to have a mechanic do it for you, especially for anything that says "marine" on it.

Can you afford to repower with a new, dependable, single outboard? Maybe add a kicker later for peace of mind?

Did I hear you say "sell the boat"? Blasphemy!