Am I not getting fuel to the carb ??

[jay s]

I have 1999 50 hp Johnson that I am having a problem with. Seems like it is not getting fuel or something. It will not go any faster than about 5 mph. Idles rough. I did a little tinkering and pulled the thin hose on top of the carb. It has what looks like a brass (jet?) at the end. When I pull this hose out of the carb with the engine running, there is no fuel coming out of that hose. Does the carb get fuel by the engine's suction through that hose? - or should the hose shoot fuel out of it when pulled from the carb?? (and engine running). Thought that this hose could be clogged. Thanks for any help.

 

[Solittle]

Re: Am I not getting fuel to the carb ??

jay - The carb does not suck fuel. The fuel pump pumps the fuel into the carb. Try pumping the primer bulb when it is running. <br /><br />From your description you have crud in the carb(s) and they need to be thoroughly cleaned and a carb kit installed. For further reading:<br /><br /> http://www.outboardrepairs.com/carburetors/ <br /><br />I suggest that you get an OMC shop manual for your motor if you do not already have one.

 

[jay s]

Re: Am I not getting fuel to the carb ??

Thanks for the advice. I'll try that this weekend. What do you recommend I clean the carb with? Should I take it apart ?? I'm not really familiar with outboards but I understand engine mechanics well enough.

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: Am I not getting fuel to the carb ??

Take it apart and use regular automotive carb cleaner(Gumout) and spray out all the passages and jets real well. Blow out orifices with compressed air. Check float level. Should be parallel with the bowl when the carb is turned upside down. Check to be sure that the float needle is not sticking in the seat. A rebuild kit would be best, but you can try cleaning it first and see how it goes. Take your time and work in a clean area. The Manual would help greatly in this situation.

 

[jay s]

Re: Am I not getting fuel to the carb ??

Took both carbs off and took apart. Cleaned really well with Gumout. Inspected operation and condition of carbs. Put the carbs back on the motor and took it to the closest boat ramp. Engine runs great!!!! Problem solved !!!!! (knock on wood) Thanks for the help. Jay S.