source of outboard problems?

[jshoes52]

Would anyone say that outboard problems are more likey to be due to the electrical system or fuel system? I'm talking about outboards between 100 and 200 hp, so electrical starting systems also have to be considered.<br /><br />Thanks

 

[jy118lfd]

Re: source of outboard problems?

Most outboard problems are due to the loose "nut" behind the wheel <br />All kidding aside,except for a few manufacter or engineering problems the majority of problems are due to lack of maitnence or total disreguard for a hint that something is not right. As in the person that says "My horn was going off but I was almost back to the dock so I ran it for a while now it won't start"

 

[jshoes52]

Re: source of outboard problems?

electrical or fuel?

 

[jy118lfd]

Re: source of outboard problems?

Well both I would assume both, as the electrical system needs attetion as in tightening connections and cleaning corrosion. The fuel system needs attention to fuel age and quality, water in fuel and oil tank is a sure way to disaster.<br /><br />Engineering problems can be both as in the wiring harnesses in older mercs and in fuel injectors in the johnson fitch motors of the late 90's which could be both electrical or fuel depending how you look at it. <br /><br />Most newer outboards are well thought out fine pieces of machinery and to endure a life of not being run for weeks and sitting in water, to hours of near wide open throttle to hours of idle time it is amazing that any of them last more than a few weeks!!!

 

[JB]

Re: source of outboard problems?

I think the carburetion systems on big, multi-carb engines cause more grief than ignition systems.<br /><br />On DFI engines I think the ignition systems are more often the culprit.

 

[TOHATSU GURU]

Re: source of outboard problems?

Fuel system problems are the most common across all brands.

 

[timmathis]

Re: source of outboard problems?

Really hard to say. I would say 50/50 overall if everything is taken care of maintenance wise. Tim

 

[Scaaty]

Re: source of outboard problems?

......failing to read the manual, saltwater, slobs that lose plastc bags over the side, wrenches in untrained hands, the well meaning neighbor/friend thats knows a better idea, something will get ya, for it is, a boat motor, and needs nothing from you but money.

 

[JB]

Re: source of outboard problems?

Oh, and, um. . . .I think magnetos are far more reliable than "electronic" ignition systems, particularly on small engines.

 

[Richard Petersen]

Re: source of outboard problems?

Magnetos run for more than 50 years with nothing done to them. Mercruiser wishes they could get them out the door running for 5 years.

 

[roscoe]

Re: source of outboard problems?

waterpump problems may not be quite as common, but cause more permanent damage.

 

[JB]

Re: source of outboard problems?

Yes. What Roscoe said. I think that would fall into the category of neglect.