Hard start merc 200

[rmt103]

I bought a boat with a 1980 merc 200. This is my first boat or experiance with boats. The boat is difficult to start. Once I get it running it runs great, no stumbling or bogging. I usually start it by holding in the choke until it tries to start, and then release the choke and try to start it. Even then, sometimes it won't start. Is there another way I should try starting it? What else should I do?

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: Hard start merc 200

I had that problem with my 83 150. If you have an enrichner instead of the old butterfly type choke in front of the carb, try this. Turn the key on, hold the choke in for 4 or 5 seconds, then start it. You will have to experiment as to how long to hold it in before trying to start it. Good luck.