Fuel Problem ... Bleed Down

[BluefishBuster]

I'm new to outboards and am having a problem with my Johnson motor. When attempting a cold start, I pump the primer bulb (pressurizing the fuel line) but can't get the motor to start. Then, if I remove the engine cover and bleed the line (there's a valve on the fuel pump), while pumping the primer bulb, and close it off (in effect, priming the entire line), I get the motor to start. Motor then runs fine until I shut it off for a length of time ... then has problems starting and remaining running. Any hints? Thanks a bunch.

 

[rabidfish]

Re: Fuel Problem ... Bleed Down

That valve is the manual primer system. Sounds like you are actually turning it "on". In the normal "run" position, the red lever should be parrallel to the solenoid body. You can(or should) be able to feel a small "click" when it closes. When "open" it runs extremely rich, until the engine floods & stalls. If it is hard to start, check to ensure the valve is activating when you push in on the keyswitch.

 

[BluefishBuster]

Re: Fuel Problem ... Bleed Down

Rabidfish, want to make sure I understand ... the manual primer (red "lever" on fuel pump) should not be fully closed for normal operation? It should be set somewhere between closed and open? I will have to look at it again this evening. Thanks for the help!

 

[Walker]

Re: Fuel Problem ... Bleed Down

The valve should be fully closed at all times. The only time you should have to open it is if your primer doesn't work and you need to manually prime your motor. Test the primer like Rabidfish suggested and if its wroking properly and you still can't get your motor to fire then My suggestion is you tear down your vro pump and check for a torn diaphram.