Fixed the flooding, now it's backfiring. Why?

deejathome

Cadet
Joined
May 17, 2004
Messages
13
90 Merc 20HP tiller. As explained earlier, I had a carb problem that caused the system to overfuel. Seems the carb was clogged up a bit. Blew it out and rebuilt it and now it's running. However, at idle, there is a popping from time to time, kind of backfiring. When I rev it up, the popping stops. Any ideas on how to cure this? Thanks in advance!!
 

Trent

Captain
Joined
Nov 17, 2001
Messages
3,333
Re: Fixed the flooding, now it's backfiring. Why?

Sounds to me its "Lean Sneezing" Did you make sure you cleaned the idle circuit? I would take it apart again and re-clean the carb. When you think you have it real clean. Clean it again!
 

jim dozier

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Jan 8, 2003
Messages
1,970
Re: Fixed the flooding, now it's backfiring. Why?

When a 2-stroke "sneezes" at idle your idle mixture is too lean. If you can't correct this with adjustments to the idle mixture screw, you will have to go back into the carbs to find out why it is running lean.
 

deejathome

Cadet
Joined
May 17, 2004
Messages
13
Re: Fixed the flooding, now it's backfiring. Why?

Hmmmm, Idle circuit. Can you tell me where that is? I know where the fast adjustment screw is, where is the lean mixture screw? By the way Trent, what is your advice for cleaning? What is the best method? Im REALLY good at taking this thing apart now, so Ill give it a try if I find out what exactly Im cleaning!! THX!!
 

jim dozier

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Jan 8, 2003
Messages
1,970
Re: Fixed the flooding, now it's backfiring. Why?

This is where a manual comes in handy. All of these carbs are similar, except where they're different! :eek: I don't know your particular carb. Some do not have an adjustable idle circuit, the jet orifice is fixed similar to the fixed main jet. Some have a screw that meters fuel, unscrewing it enrichens the idle mixture. Some have a screw that meters air, unscrewing it leans the idle mixture. The manual knows all. Go to the bottom of this web page and order one. Generally the main (high speed) jet sits down in the center of the float bowl. The idle circuit is usually smaller and conneceted to the carb throat through a series of small passages and orifices, most often with an adjustable screw to vary the size of the orifice. <br /><br />ALL orifices and jets need to be thoroughly cleaned with carb solvent and compressed air as well as the float valve. Float valves should be replaced along with any gaskets or O-rings.
 
Top