Mercruiser 5.7 wanting to stall at idle after driving around

[dubs283]

Have you set the idle air mixture? Checked vacuum at idle? You want to see 15-18 in/hg

 

[jimmbo]

It shouldn't be dripping like that. Is the Timing set correctly? If the timing is retarded, the throttle will have to be opened more to get the idle speed up, and the increased Airflow can result in the Nozzles feeding fuel.
The little Clip you tossed, is there to lift the Needle Valve off the seat when the Fuel Level is low, like when the carb sits for several weeks and some fuel evaporates, it keeps the Needle from sticking shut. Rochester Engineers wouldn't have put it in, if it didn't serve a Purpose

 

[Lou C]

Agreed the throttle may be set too far open. No need to toss the clip just install it correctly!

 

[todhunter]

Have you set the idle air mixture? Checked vacuum at idle? You want to see 15-18 in/hg

Idle air screws were set per Cliff's book...maybe I'll look over that procedure again. Where is a vacuum port to check the vacuum at?

It shouldn't be dripping like that. Is the Timing set correctly? If the timing is retarded, the throttle will have to be opened more to get the idle speed up, and the increased Airflow can result in the Nozzles feeding fuel.
The little Clip you tossed, is there to lift the Needle Valve off the seat when the Fuel Level is low, like when the carb sits for several weeks and some fuel evaporates, it keeps the Needle from sticking shut. Rochester Engineers wouldn't have put it in, if it didn't serve a Purpose

As stated in the original post, timing is correct. Just for good measure I double checked it again this morning - spot on 8 degrees BTDC at 600-650 RPM idle speed.
Cliff's book clearly states that the little clip can be discarded, so that's what I did. I think we can all agree that I don't have an issue with my needle valve sticking closed.

After this weekend, I'll probably pull the carburetor back off and look through it again.

 

[dubs283]

Idle air screws were set per Cliff's book...maybe I'll look over that procedure again. Where is a vacuum port to check the vacuum at?

Setting screws per the book is a starting point, you must fine tune them to the engine once warm, running with the choke fully open. Vacuum can be measured by installing a barb fitting in the intake, normally behind the carburetor