Cannot start 96 merc 25 hp

[mcat1212]

I have been having trouble lately starting the motor. (But it would start). After it's warmed up, it starts instantly. Last trip out it started in a few tries but then stalled. Then it restarted and ran for about 30 seconds then slowly ran down until it stalled. (Sounded like it was running out of gas). I checked spark-OK (it will start if I spray starting fluid in the carb.) I know gas is getting to the carb. How can I diag. if gas is getting through the carb or if the float is stuck? Thanx

 

[roscoe]

Re: Cannot start 96 merc 25 hp

First, don't use starting fluid on a 2 cycle engine, it provides no lubrication. <br /><br />If you choke the engine, and pull pull pull, you should be able to remove the sparkplugs and see/smell the gas. <br /><br />Take a small squirt bottle and put a couple ounces of premixed fuel in it. Try spritzing this directly into the carb throat, before starting, and also after it is running.<br />Check the gas tank for sediment that may be clogging the fuel pickup.<br />I would start with rebuilding the fuel pump ($10.)<br />Then rebuild the carbs.