83 Merc 25 hp elect wont stay running

[jwh]

Hi! all,
Bought 83 merc 25 hp that had been sitting for over a year. Took off carb and cleaned. Reinstalled and used new gas. Starts right up using key choke and runs for just a few sec. Won't start using manual choke.Wondering if maybe fuel bowl float is not set correct? Also throttlle shutter(butterfly) is closed at start.Is that correct?? Seems like it should be. Tried adjustng the idle screw from stop out 1/2 turn each time.No luck.There is plenty of gas going to carb. I am new at this so any help would be very much appreciated. thanks much. John

 

[will941s]

Re: 83 Merc 25 hp elect wont stay running

Float should be fine, unless you bent to tab. The butterfly should be closed (there are holes drilled in the plate for air). Try taking the carb off and making sure the carb to intake gasket is installed properly. There is a small hole that goes from the intake to the carb that works the fuel pump, is the hole in the gasket does not match up to the hole, it will not start to save your life. Easy mistake to make since the gasket is symetrical and fits everyway you put on, but the gasket position HAS to match up with the hole in the intake plate. Try that first and let us know how it works out.

Also, since you adjusted the idle screw, turn it clockwise til lightly seated, then back it off 1 1/4 turn to begin to "reset" the carb back to the right setting. If the gasket is the problem to starting, it should at least start in this position.

 

[jwh]

Re: 83 Merc 25 hp elect wont stay running

HeY Will,
Thanks very much for your info. I will do it today and let you know how it comes out. John