1978 Mercury 800 power issues.

[MossyOak99]

Hi there. I am having some problems that I am not sure what to look for. I take the boat to the water and she starts right up and idles great. I let it idle 10-15 minutes. I back away from dock and head out of the no wake zone, hammer down the throttle and get nothing. She sounds like it wants to go but won't. I back of the throttle, then punch it again and same thing quick rev like she wants to go but just doesn't go anywhere. Its as if i just have it idling. If I continue going it will suddenly pick up the power and get up on plane no problems. Then it will continue to run fine.

I am at a loss on what might be causing this issue. Any suggestions would be great. Thanks.

Again it is a 1978 Mercury 800

 

[CharlieB]

Re: 1978 Mercury 800 power issues.

How long since the carbs have been cleaned?

Deposits in the carb affect the idle circuits much worse and cause acceleration issues.

'Bump' the choke while attempting to accelerate, if the added fuel helps, then you'll know, it is time to start cleaning.