I have a 2002 50hp Mercury 2 stroke that ran fine until this year. My problem started after I had my water pump replaced. The motor would "spit and sputter" when trying to idle up. Now it cranks but it idles for only a few minutes before it dies but it will crank back up. When attempting to throttle up I can't get the motor to keep consistant rpms (spits and sputters). Here's what I've done so far: new plugs, new water separating fuel filter, new in-line fuel filter, new fuel line, new primer bulb, new ignition. I had the carbs rebuilt and was told they looked fine (no water, corrosion or sediment) but had it done anyway. I did have a crack in the line next to the primer bulb and when I took of the old inline fuel filter there were "caramel" colored crystals(?) in it. My new in-line fuel filter is see-through and I don't see any particles floating through it. I was told to drain my fuel and start over with new gas. Could this be my problem, bad gas? I have always used the higher octane and added a stabilizer. My tank is below deck so if I need to clean out the fuel tank how would I do this if this is even my problem? Any input would be great.
