Evinrude Vindicator 1996 200 HP--Nightmare to Start

[KVH]

This engine has been a nightmare to start, even right after having "professional" tune-ups. I'm told the problem is gas sitting in the carbs, but that can't be it anymore. I drain them regularly. Also, my primer solenoid clicks and sounds good to the ear.

But I'm convinced there's "gunk" somewhere causing the starting problems. It routinely takes about 30 minutes at the ramp to start every single time. The other boaters must think I'm senile.

So, I'm going back up to the lake where my boat is stored, and I'm pulling off the solenoid and small fuel line tubing. I need to satisfy myself that everything is clean and clear. I have some questions: a) How do I clean out the lines, and if I replace any of the lines will I be able to seal them back up with zip ties like from the factory, or does that require a ratchet tool of some sort; b) do I use pipe cleaners on any hoses or carb galleys? c) do I dare trust replacement parts, gaskets, etc. I ordered off Amazon? d) my fuel pump is new, so I highly doubt that's the problem, and my filter looks fine, but I'm going to guess one or more of you will say I'm spinning my wheels--any other advice before I head up in the fast approaching heat?

I'm not planning to pull the carbs off for full rebuilds. The engine runs great once it starts. It's getting there that's the trouble.

Thanks all.

 

[racerone]

Are you pushing the key IN and HOLDING it in while cranking it over ?-----Battery load tested ?-----All that cranking may have damaged the starter.----Take it apart for inspection.----Ohm test the armature.------Or outline your starting procedure in detail.

 

[dingbat]

I’ve owned a 97 200hp Ocean Pro that was getting hard to start. Putting a new starter on it made all the difference in the world.

A year later, it started getting hard to start again. Did some troubleshooting and came up with a bad (flakey) key switch. New key switch and primer assembly for good luck and it was back to starting normally again.

Then last season, it started acting up again, crank, crank, crank, no start. Walk back, use the red lever to prime and it starts on the first try. Solenoid clicks, everything sounds (click) normal, but no start.

Suspect the aftermarket primer is bad. Ordered a rebuilt kit for the OE unit I removed. Pretty sure that will solve the problem.