Fuel Smell, Outboards

[koolerb]

Both of my out boards (92 Johnson 60 three cyl, 2000 Johnson 50 two cyl) have a strong fuel smell when the cowl is removed. There is always a shiney film on the inside of the front of the cowl. No fuel leaks that I can see; no slick in the water when running. Is this just normal for a two stroke outboard?

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Fuel Smell, Outboards

If the engines are tilted up when moored/docked a small amount of fuel from the carb bowls can dribble into the air silencer. A drain fitting at the bottom of the silencer allows that fuel to be drawn back into the engine when started. If fuel is not leaking anywhere, consider the smell normal.