Mercury 40 only runs for 5 to 10 sec

[MercHelp]

I have a 1981 40hp Mercury. It's starts and runs for only a few seconds then
stops. I have checked the fuel pump and gas flows pretty well, I have taken the carb off and taken apart and cleaned but still the same results. Any other suggestion that may fix?

Thanks!

 

[Dunaruna]

Re: Mercury 40 only runs for 5 to 10 sec

Exactly how do you get it RE-started? Do you have to pump the primer bulb?

 

[MercHelp]

Re: Mercury 40 only runs for 5 to 10 sec

Yes, If I pump the primer bulb it will start,

 

[MercHelp]

Re: Mercury 40 only runs for 5 to 10 sec

Fixed the problem!! turns out that the idle adjustment was not opened enough .

 

[Dunaruna]

Re: Mercury 40 only runs for 5 to 10 sec

Good news!

I was going to suggest that the primer bulb valve was due for replacement but no need now.