3.7L Alpha One starting / idling issues

[grady86]

I have a 1990 Bluewater cuddy cabin with a 3.7L alpha one I/O. The last time I had it on the water was approximately 6-ish months ago. Everything would run fine mid to full throttle, but once I brought it down to idle or neutral, the motor would slowly sputter and die. After trying to turn it over unsuccessfully a few times, I let it sit for about 30 minutes and then attempted again. It finally fired up and I quickly motored back to the marina. Once there, it died again in the same manner as before, and I had to get a tow into the pier.

Here is what I did to try and solve the problem:

Replaced spark plugs, changed motor oil, changed oil filter, changed fuel filter, added ethanol treatment to fuel tank (I keep the fuel tank completely full when storing to prevent condensation). At the shop, with mouse ears connected, it seemed to be running slightly better, although it still died a couple of times while idling. After it was "warmed up," it was running like it should at idle.

Took it to the water today to give a test run and didn't even get it off the trailer because it wouldn't fire up. Any help would be appreciated... have to get this thing up in time for crab season!

 

[thumpar]

Re: 3.7L Alpha One starting / idling issues

Check for spark when it is having the issue. When was the last time the points were changed?

 

[wrench 3]

Re: 3.7L Alpha One starting / idling issues

If it won't start, you're in better shape for testing. You need fuel, compression and spark (all at the right time) for it to run. For the time being we'll assume the compression is OK. So check for spark at the plugs and fuel from the carb when you pump the throttle. If one of these is lacking, go to the late great Don's posts at the top of the forum and read how to test that system.

 

[grady86]

Re: 3.7L Alpha One starting / idling issues

Check for spark when it is having the issue. When was the last time the points were changed?

unsure, you're talking about distributor points right? Possibly 4+ years.

 

[thumpar]

Re: 3.7L Alpha One starting / idling issues

unsure, you're talking about distributor points right? Possibly 4+ years.

Yes. I am not saying to replace them at this point but it is something to check. Do the diagnostics.

 

[grady86]

Re: 3.7L Alpha One starting / idling issues

If it won't start, you're in better shape for testing. You need fuel, compression and spark (all at the right time) for it to run. For the time being we'll assume the compression is OK. So check for spark at the plugs and fuel from the carb when you pump the throttle. If one of these is lacking, go to the late great Don's posts at the top of the forum and read how to test that system.

Copy all, will try. Thanks for the pointing me in the right direction.

 

[stonyloam]

Re: 3.7L Alpha One starting / idling issues

If you have spark and it will not start, might be time for a carb rebuild, especially if it has never been done.