Mercruiser 4.3 V6 (carb) sputtering

[regjen]

Just recently got my first boat and took her out on the Potomac on Sunday. Started up fine initially but after we dropped anchor and fished for a while, when I started her up it was very difficult to restart. I finally continued to turn the key while "pumping the gas" (with the shifter) and it made a loud shrill after cranking. Afterwards I had to do this every time I restarted the boat. What should I check first? I understand that it is a carb motor but I'm concerned that I will eventually burn out the starter with as long as I am turning it over before the engine starts. Any suggestions would be appreciated pertaining to this issue. Thanks. Reg

 

[searay3]

Re: Mercruiser 4.3 V6 (carb) sputtering

You don't give a year so can't tell what Ignition system you have. It always starts with a complete tune up. The Ignition system you have will determine what parts you need. After that the troubleshooting starts....

 

[regjen]

Re: Mercruiser 4.3 V6 (carb) sputtering

1990 Dixie Boat, 4.3 V6 165hp

 

[searay3]

Re: Mercruiser 4.3 V6 (carb) sputtering

Plugs/wires/cap/rotor/fuel filters (2) and/if a fuel water seperator, carb adjust and check timing. Check the Antisiphon valve. Check the clear line that runs from the fuel pump to the carb. If there is fuel in it, the pump is bad and needs replaced. Then I would look at a carb rebuild or replace. It is old. Get a manual if you don't have one.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Mercruiser 4.3 V6 (carb) sputtering

Reg, It should restart within a few seconds, without pumping the throttle. Check your choke plate after warmup. It should be wide open. If not clean. lube and adjust the linkage.

Check to see that the carb has gas in it after you set a bit when warm. You can detect this by pumping the throttle and watching for the accelerator pump to give it a squirt. You might see if the carb is overly hot as well. It may have some vaporlock. If so, check to see that the motor has no overheating issues and enough ventilation.

 

[regjen]

Re: Mercruiser 4.3 V6 (carb) sputtering

Will do and let you know. Thanks Searay and Chris.