Merc 350 starts fine then quits...

[CSX2]

I have a remanufactured Mercruiser 350CID that was installed two seasons ago. Ran great last year. Now the engine starts just fine and sounds good. After warm-up it starts to choke a little then dies completely (sometimes dies just as it is put into gear). Can usually restart but will not run once in gear. Engine temp gauge never went above 160 degrees. Oil pressure and level fine. Have had the following work done with no success:<br /><br />New thermostat after mechanic suspected overheating to be the problem. Claimed that the gas was vaporizing before getting to carb -- no joy.<br /><br />Fuel tank pumped and filtered after mechanic claimed bad gas was the problem -- no joy.<br /><br />Carb rebuilt after mechanic claimed water in fuel could have caused corrosion in carb -- no joy.<br /><br />All this after a spring tune-up and a new ignition switch and solenoid (sorry, can't remember what solenoid) -- no joy.<br /><br />Mechanic now claims that the other mechanic (engine installer) did crappy job and that he can't figure out what the problem is. I am done with these guys ($1700 later) and looking for suggestions. Can't get original mechanic to look at boat until I can move it to new location (long story).

 

[wvit100]

Re: Merc 350 starts fine then quits...

What year is it? What kind of iginition system?Sounds like mine this spring. Have they check the ignition module? Mine was going bad, it would start but wouldn't keep running after it was warmed up.

 

[Northern Eclipse]

Re: Merc 350 starts fine then quits...

CSX2 have you had the lower shift cable adjusted or replaced, if not I would say your problem could possibly be just that, I'v owned mercs for 16 yrs and both times I had the problem you describe it was lower shift cable. I had one mechanic say to rebuild my entire motor. and another one at the same shop said my distributer was shot,,, I left that place fast.

 

[oldboat1]

Re: Merc 350 starts fine then quits...

I think Northern Eclipse is on the right track --believe I would insure that the shift linkage and outdrive gears are intact and working before looking for any other directions.<br /><br />If the engine is acting up before putting it in gear, though, you still may have to explore other options. The choke may not be fully disengaged after warm-up, for example, or there may be a kinked or collapsing fuel line -- or a partial blockage somewhere in the fuel supply system (fuel tank screen?). There could be a partially clogged filter, or the fuel pump could need servicing or replacing.

 

[hondon]

Re: Merc 350 starts fine then quits...

What do those plugs look like after the stall ?Nice and tan and healthy ,or white on one or two like maybe that exhaust manifold is leaking?