possible primer bulb?

[sskoshi]

I went out in my boat today and I noticed after I launched it that the primer bulb was completely dry and the clear part of my fuel filter was empty. I tried for about 10 mins to get the primer bulb hard and full of fuel but I couldn't .. The only way I got my engine started was to Crank and crank until the compression from the engine sucked up the gas. When its started it runs very well. After I turn it off and let it sit for 10-15 mins the primer bulb still is not hard, even after pumping it and the clear area on the bottom of my fuel filter looks empty again. and it takes forever to crank it again to get fuel to the engine. I know there isn't a fuel leak any where. Could a bad Primer Bulb cause this problem?????

 

[jeffdjpeat]

Re: possible primer bulb?

the primer bulb could be bad, or installed backwards??? what is the motor?

 

[sskoshi]

Re: possible primer bulb?

it is a 125 mercury. the bulb is on correctly, the arrow is in the right direction of the fuel flow

 

[roger777]

Re: possible primer bulb?

If you have cracks in your fuel line it might not leak but you could be pulling air up which might be why it is so hard to prime and also wont hold prime after a while. I had the same problem with a set of twins but only 1 was not holding. Switched the fuel lines and never had a problem again. You might also want to check if the tank is vented properly.. Hope this helps..