Hard to start

[smaples]

I took the boat out yesterday for a test run and started the boat at home and let it run for a few minutes before taking it to the lake. It started quickly on the first try. I put the boat in the lake and the thing would not start, I held the starter on for several seconds. I stopped and waited a few seconds, try again, and it started. I ran the boat, but never shut it off, I was afraid it would not start. I got the boat home and got it ready for a clean water flush. The boat started quickly on the first try. Could there be some kind of electrical issue going on that happens when the motor is in the water?

 

[CharlieB]

Re: Hard to start

The major difference between on the hose and in the water is the water column in the exhaust leg while in the water causes back-pressure restricting exhaust flow. Anytime exhaust is restricted it also causes a small restriction on intake air flow. This small difference is most noticable at idle and is the reason idle mixture must be set while on-the-water, creating an overly rich mixture when run on the hose at home.

Running on the hose (rich) can load up a set of spark plugs making the motor a bit harder to start once launched. If the condition continues you may want to clean or replace your spark plugs.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Hard to start

And use the fast idle lever that most folks don't know they have. It would help to know exactly what your starting procedure is and exactly what motor you are talking about.

 

[smaples]

Re: Hard to start

The motor is a 2002 mercury 115 EFI 4 stroke.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Hard to start

So what procedure do you use to start the engine cold and warm. Turning the key is not the correct answer.