'84 Mariner 115HP won't idle

[boatidiot]

My motor runs extremely rough at idle and shuts off often. When I can manage to get it in drive it runs very rough up to 2000 rpm's. From 2000 rpm's and higher, it like a new motor. Where should I start?

 

[The Marine Doctor]

Re: '84 Mariner 115HP won't idle

Welcome to the forum.<br /><br />Unfortunately there are many different problems that your engine could be having.<br /><br />Do a compression test..and spark test. Pull the plugs...check them over. Look for a plug that is different than the others.<br /><br />Then get back to us.<br /><br />TMD

 

[boatidiot]

Re: '84 Mariner 115HP won't idle

Thanks Marine Doctor<br />I didn't have the time to work on the boat myself so I took it to a mechanic. He cleaned the carbs and change the plugs to Champions ( he hates Autolites for some reason). By the way, he said all 6 cylinders registered 140 psi. It ran OK today up to the point that I had to ask for a tow back to the docks after my brand new ( 2 outings ) battery failed me. Apparently something is bleeding power from the battery. I guess I will start by looking at the instrument cluster. <br />Do you by chance know how strong of a battery this engine requires? The mechanic told me the power packs draw from the battery at launch. Shortly before loss of battery power, the engine died twice at take off trying to pull my son on water skiis. <br />I have much to learn!<br />Thanks in advane