88 MERCURY BLACK MAX 150 HELP

vman6

Recruit
Joined
Feb 5, 2003
Messages
3
Looking for some advice on what might be wrong with my motor. I have done a search on this site and have seen some others post the same problem but I haven't seen the solution. The motor is a 1988 Mercury 150 2.0L carburated engine. Here's my problem. First let me say this motor starts and idles great. The problem occurs whenever I let my motor idle for long periods of time (warming up, idling through no wake zones, etc.). When I try to get the motor on plane, it loads up as if its flooded. I can shut the motor off for about 2 minutes, restart it and she will get right on plane. The other way to get it on plane is to put it in neutral and rev the engine to about 3-4 rpms for a few seconds and then put it in gear. I have taken it to two different mechanics. The first one changed the stator and switch box. That didn't cure the problem so I took it to another mechanic and he replaced the check valves. That didn't fix it either. I have tried to make sure my motor is level when idling (heard that may work) but that really hasn't helped. I would appreciate any advice or maybe point me to a really good mechanic in eastern North Carolina. Thanks.
 

Reel Appeal

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Aug 19, 2002
Messages
566
Re: 88 MERCURY BLACK MAX 150 HELP

Vman6,<br /> Those 80's Mercs are known to "load up" when running at slower speeds.I should know,I have one too.Gas mixtures must be on the money 50:1 and I think you should be running at least 89 octane(or higher) gasoline.Make sure your thermostats are installed and working(also make sure rubber seal is there too).Over-cooling does not help the situation.You are probably running NGK BU8H(surface gap) spark plugs.If all else fails replace these with NGK BU10H plugs.These plugs fire slightly hotter.Check the quality of spark(blue?).Remove the carbs (if necessary) and dis-assemble/cleanout bowls/check pin and seat for wear.Keep in mind these motors run best off idle and do not make great trolling motors....
 

vman6

Recruit
Joined
Feb 5, 2003
Messages
3
Re: 88 MERCURY BLACK MAX 150 HELP

reel man,<br /> thanks for the input. been out of town and just got around to reading your post. my motor has the oil injection and i will see about getting it adjusted. thanks again for the help.<br />vman6
 

Elkhunter173

Cadet
Joined
Jun 2, 2008
Messages
7
Re: 88 MERCURY BLACK MAX 150 HELP

vman6 if you are still out there I am having the same problem with my 1988 150 black max. Did you find the problem?
 

CharlieB

Vice Admiral
Joined
Apr 10, 2007
Messages
5,617
Re: 88 MERCURY BLACK MAX 150 HELP

Elkhunter,

You need to start a new thread with your problem.

This thread is SIX YEARS old, I doubt that anyone is going to answer.
 
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