DT8 Won't Idle & Mama Wants to Get Out on the Water Tomorrow!

[parfour7th]

I have an '86 DT8 that I just bought as part of a boat purchase. The motor probably hasn't ran in a few years and before I even attempted to start it I:<br /><br />~Flushed fuel lines/tank and mixed new 100:1<br />~Disconnected the fuel filter and inspected it--it looked perfectly clean<br />~Changed plugs (although the old ones weren't in bad shape)<br />~Changed the gear lube in the lower unit<br /><br />After these steps, I dropped the motor in a large (clean) plastic garbage can filled with water. I choked it and to my surprise, it started on the third pull. Unfortunately, the problem is that it will not idle and the only way I can keep it running is to coax the throttle and/or choke. Changing the throttle position to anything under "Start" position and the motor dies. It takes three or four pulls, a little chock and the engine will start back up again but then exhibits the same problem. What might the problem be? Unfortunately, I do not yet have a service manual so I'm going on my very limited knowledge of outboard motors. Any help would be most appreciated as I would REALLY like to get out on the water tomorrow. <br /><br />Thanks in advance!<br /><br />Chris

 

[cpj]

Re: DT8 Won't Idle & Mama Wants to Get Out on the Water Tomorrow!

take the carb off and clean it with carb cleaner.you MUST disassemble it completely and spray the cleaner through every last hole in the carb.you should also at the very least pull the fuel pump apart and make sure that it is clean also.I say at the very least cause you should consider a new pump due to the time it has set and if you dont know when it was changed last.that should fix your running problem.You should also put in a new water pump impelar if you dont know the maint. history.you would hate to fry a good motor due to a 20$ impellar,hope this helps

 

[parfour7th]

Re: DT8 Won't Idle & Mama Wants to Get Out on the Water Tomorrow!

Thanks for the advice. Sounds like a job better suited to the pros--or at least semi-pro. I have buddy at work that has worked on many an outboard motor. He has offered to do whatever is necessary to get it running tip-top. I normally like to do things myself because that's how you learn but I also know when I'm over my head. <br /><br />Thanks for the heads up on the impeller. I'll make sure my friend takes a look at that as well.<br /><br />CRC