Hard to start

[pikerpiker]

Yes I was wondering if anybody can help a old man out?? I have a 1984 Johnson 7.5 hp motor And I have a hard time starting the motor when I first get to the lake .I have to use starting fluid to get it to run . After that it runs like a champ. But if I let it sit and I fish for about 2 or 3 hours I have to use the starting fluid to get it running then after that it will run all day if I keep it running or just turn it off for about 30 minutes to a hour, will idle down nicely and top end is great . Thanks for any help Chris

 

[HighTrim]

Re: Hard to start

To start, NEVER use starting fluid in a 2 stroke outboard. It does not have the proper lubrication and is a quick way to trouble.

Use pre mixed fuel in a spray bottle, just steal one from the wife.

Is the choke plate closing all the way?

 

[nwcove]

Re: Hard to start

im with hightrim.....dont use starting fluid.....( it will change your hard starting motor to a non starting motor) you need to figure out the problem.....and it could be as easy as a $20 carb kit and cleaning.
is the motor new to you? or did this problem just arise?

 

[boobie]

Re: Hard to start

When you are trying to start it, make sure the choke plate is CLOSING all the way. If it runs as good as you say and idles well, I don't think you need any carb work.

 

[pikerpiker]

Re: Hard to start

Thanks for the help . I won't use the starting fluid ever again. The choke was't closing all the way . Just checked it out . Now it starts on the first or second pull. Thanks for all the help.

 

[kfa4303]

Re: Hard to start

Glad you got if figured out pikerpiker. Ditto on the starting fluid. It's cheap dirty trick, but it usually causes more harm than good. A bottle of premix, or even WD-40 or Deep Creep can help start ups and actually help lube the interior, rather than removing lubricants. For future reference, if/when it happens again, even through the choke is closing all the way, it usually means that the carb needs a good cleaning and rebuild. The ethanol in modern gas can/does leave behind residues that clog carb passages up faster than ever. Not much you can do about it really, other than stay vigilante and keep the carb clean as can be. Glad you got her running. Cheers!

 

[HighTrim]

Re: Hard to start

Glad you got her, cheers.

BTW, It isnt really the Ethanol fuel per se that leaves the residues. It cleans your fuel system, which breaks down chunks of residue which clogs the fuel system. THe fuel is usually to blame, but if it is used in a clean system, with updated fuel lines, there should be no trouble.

 

[kfa4303]

Re: Hard to start

it can grab lots of ambient moisture and trap it in the fuel too.