5.7L Mercruiser stalls

bbracken

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jul 4, 2002
Messages
40
Boat is 1986 Cobalt with 5.7L Mercruiser Alpha 1. It starts fine when cold. After running 5-10 minutes at 2500-3000, RPM drops, won't take throttle, eventually stops. I can't restart immediately, but can start after a few minutes. Then, won't take throttle, have to run just above idle to get back to dock. Next day, same scenario.

It ran fine last fall. Was winterized by marina. Problem showed up to minor extent when I first used it this spring. Now it's bad.

The first thing I did was to change the fuel filter (and also clean the screen at the carb, which had only a little crud). No effect.

It seems to be temperature related, although the engine does not run hot. OK when cold for few minutes, then dies, won't restart until engine cools off.

I suspect something internal, like a crack in block or intake manifold. I can visualize a scenario where a small crack, especially in manifold, opens up when warm allowing water to get in.

Help!
 

BIGALF

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Dec 31, 1969
Messages
242
Re: 5.7L Mercruiser stalls

It looks like you might be on the right track. Did you check the filter in the fuel tank? It is attached to the fuel line that is in the tank. I had the same problem and the $2.00 filter cost me over $1,000 in needless repairs from a Mercruiser expert.
 

bbracken

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jul 4, 2002
Messages
40
Re: 5.7L Mercruiser stalls

Thanks, Bigalf, I didn't check the filter in the tank, but am certain fuel is getting to the carb. I loosened the fuel line and got gas there.
 

6meter

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
May 15, 2010
Messages
525
Re: 5.7L Mercruiser stalls

KISS method bbracken. First I'd imediatly pump the throttle and see if gas squirts into the carb after it stalls. Loosening the fuel line says you have fuel at the carb, but not in it. There is a fuel filter there. Check the water seperator filter for water. Remove the anti siphon valve screwed into the fuel tank and make sure its clean and the ball moves freely. Trying to determine fuel or electric problem. Eliminate fuel first. When your problem arises, feel the coil. Is it hot? Is there oil leaking in the center hole? All indicate bad coil. I just replaced my coil because I had the sme symtoms. My coil would almost burn my hand. At the top of the forum, go to the Adults only section. There is diagnostics there also.
 
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