1989 OMC 2.3L "studders" at low speed

[jbresleVT03]

I have a 1989 Bayliner with an OMC 2.3L (Ford) engine. The last couple of times out this year (I've only been out four times this year) I've noticed at low speeds (5 - 10 mph), every now and then, I feel a studder or a skip like for a second the prop is stopping or the engine is cutting out although I haven't heard the engine dying or haven't noticed RPM, gauges, etc drop. It hasn't done it at faster speeds. Any help would be appreciated! Thanks! Jeff

 

[whatbrokenow?]

Re: 1989 OMC 2.3L "studders" at low speed

Jeff,<br /><br />Have you changed the fuel filter lately? I had a similar problem and it was just time to change my fuel filter.<br /><br />_mike

 

[chris in va]

Re: 1989 OMC 2.3L "studders" at low speed

My Volvo 5.0 sometimes does the same thing at low speed. It's definitely an ignition problem. I think in my case some condensation builds up in the cap/rotor and causes a misfire. The spark plugs, cap/rotor and wires are all new, so I eliminated those as a source.

 

[Boatist]

Re: 1989 OMC 2.3L "studders" at low speed

I would not suspect the fuel filter for a low speed miss, fuel filter will affect high speed.<br /><br />Low speed miss can be Caburetor adjustment or idle speed too slow. Burnt valve or valve not seating will show up as a low speed miss.<br /><br />Bad exhaust manifold can show up as a low speed miss. Not enough exhaust to keep water from backing up into the engine. These will usually miss very bad when first start engine.

 

[jbresleVT03]

Re: 1989 OMC 2.3L "studders" at low speed

Thanks to you all for the replies. I changed the fuel filter before last season and not before this season. I thought I would this weekend check the plugs, wires, distributor, etc. The boat has only about 100 hours on it since 1989! I wouldn't be surprised if it was a moisture issue. It was well cared for but not heavily used each year leading up to when I bought it in 2001. Thanks again!