Force 125 hp 4 cyl dies at idle. Any ideas what I should check?

[Iankscorpio69]

My engine starts and idles, but then it starts like coughing. It seams lilke its jumping into gear and It kills the engine. Any ideas of what this might be? I just got the engine from a friend. Thanks in advanced

 

[jimmbo]

Compression, both Crankcase and Cylinder
Fuel in the correct portion
Spark at the correct time
All are needed for the engine to start and run. Take away any of them and it won't, or it won't run well.
So...
Compression Test
Does the Ignition System produce a Spark that can jump a 3/8" gap at all Cylinders?
Is the Fuel System Clean and in good condition?

Based on what you describe, I suspect the Fuel System is dirty/gummed up
Also I would recommend checking the Gearcase for Oil, or Water, and replacing the Impeller in the Water Pump before running it.

 

[jerryjerry05]

It sparks enough to get it started, no prob with spark.
If the comp was off it might not start or be really hard to start.
The owner said; My engine starts and idles, but then it starts like coughing.

That sounds like it's sucking air somewhere???

Do this: start motor/ idle/ then spray starting fluid around the intake side of the motor. This includes under the carbs, under the coils/packs and port covers(4of them).
If this makes a difference in the way it runs?? then it's sucking air.

There's a screw on top of each carb, turn it in and remember the amount of turns. In to far creates a lean condition to far out a rich condition.
Both can cause trouble.
Start them both at 1 1/2 turn out theMy engine starts and idles, but then it starts like coughing.n adjust from there.
1/8th turn in and wait 10 seconds for the engine to catch up at that level of fuel/air.
Coughing, stuttering, backfire? All 3 can cause gaskets to blow, usually the port cover gaskets. That's why the starting fluid tests.