1972 OMC V6 155-Stuery V518

hunt2labs

Seaman
Joined
May 23, 2012
Messages
60
1972 Steury V518.

So this engine was tuned up last year and this year has started backfiring after WOT for 5 minutes or so. Engine pushes boat at around 33 mph then slows down a few mph then backfires once or twice while at full throttle. I back off the throttle and it continues to backfire more frequently. Idle speed-no backfire. I can get back WOT after several minutes of idle speed.

​Note that Sunday after trolling at idle for a couple of hours, then going WOT, boat ran great for 8-10 minutes-no backfire. Then after sitting and fishing and going WOT, backfire started again at the 5 minute mark.

I have no idea how hot this motor is running-gotta fix the gauge. It is pumping water while running(we have inserted a garden hose connect at the engine which when uncapped pumps a lot of hot water out).

Engine starts and idles beautifully.

Newer plugs, wires, distributor cap, thermostat.

Used lead additive last year-no issues with backfire. Fresh fuel, using lower octane without lead additive this year. Did use the last of additive once this year-did not stop backfiring. Tank has been filled 3 times this year, so no old gas.

Thank you to all who helped me rescue this boat. Put a "new" outdrive on last year and (fingers crossed) it will continue to live on.
 

Howard Sterndrive

Rear Admiral
Joined
Nov 5, 2008
Messages
4,603
could also be vapour locking - maybe try a run with the doghouse open or off. Any exhaust leaks on the engine?
 

hunt2labs

Seaman
Joined
May 23, 2012
Messages
60
I tried running it open and it still backfired.
That's on hold for another day since as I was starting to check the filter, I noticed the engine mount not looking right. Rotten wood led to another task to take care of first. I cut off the fiberglass to reveal 85% rotten mounting board. Time to head to the lumber yard. Since I don't own an engine hoist, I used a sawhorse with additional crossbeam reinforcing it to brace a floor jack above the engine. Put a chain on the engine and hoisted it up. Now to cut off some rusty bolts. Looks like the original engine brace was oak.
 
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