new (to me) '71 650

[markamc]

Just starting out on my new adventure in boating. Got a '71 (I think) Mercury 650. Problem is, it runs well for a few minutes, and then will only run at idle speed. I know that there is a battery/charging issue because battery must be jumped for first start of the day and I am currently awaiting delivery of a manual. I was wondering if this sounded more like an electrical issue or fuel problem. I think someone may have hooked up battery cables backwards once, and I have read here about the problems that that can cause. Any suggestions or ideas would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

 

[SASS]

Re: new (to me) '71 650

If you are having problems with charging it may be the fact that your rectifier has been fried. They are usually only about $40 and are very easy to replace. Although you should wait for your manuel.<br />As for idle problem. Have the carbs been clean. is the bulb hard when running. Is it starving for fuel.<br /><br />Hope this helps.