Starter Fluid?

[glassparguy]

Was just given an '86 Bayliner with a Volvo 5.0.. All the wood has been replaced and it runs fine once it gets started. Thats the key there, once it gets started. I normally have to give it some starting fluid every time in order to get going. I'm curious of what I can do in order to eliminate the constant need for the starter fluid?? Was thinking I might need to just clean the carb, change the spark plugs or something(Prob need to do that anyways)?
Any help would be appreciated!!
I left the boat at the lake house and am trying to figure out what I need to bring with me or order for next weekend.
Thanks!
Brian

 

[JustJason]

Re: Starter Fluid?

change the spark plugs or something(Prob need to do that anyways)?

why stop there.... when was the last time a FULL tune up was done?

 

[thrasher]

Re: Starter Fluid?

Are you sure you are using the correct cold start procedure? I have a mercruiser not a volve, but for that engine, I have to pull the throttle lever outwards and then pump it from idle to fully open 2 times, this allows the choke mechanism to come on and the accelerator pumps dump some fresh fuel into the inlet to help starting. There is probably a similar procedure for the Volvo, if your not using it then starting will be difficult. If you are using the correct procedure, then it sounds like the carb needs a good overhaul. I would also give the engine a proper service just to be sure.

 

[Maclin]

Re: Starter Fluid?

I think it would be good for you to describe your starting procedure in detail, I will include mine here. It is a 1991 Volvo 5.7 with Holley 4bbl. Just did this last Saturday after It had sat for 6 weeks in storage bow up plug out. It has good gas in it, and fresh tune up this year, 2nd season on carb rebuild. I will say this is typical for mine after it has sat for more than a couple of weeks or 6 months or after a separator/filter change.


Pulled throttle handle out to engine only position. Moved the throttle in neutral to full forward twice and returned to just forward of the neutral straight up position (my lever has a detente there). Turned key to START, let it crank for 7-8 seconds and no start so I let the key return to ON. Moved the throttle full forward twice again then returned to idle detente position. Turned key to START for 7-8 seconds, no start so I let the key return to ON. Moved the throttle full forward twice again then returned to idle detente position. Turned key to START and it started immediately and idled good and strong, was able to reverse off the trailer soon after.

 

[glassparguy]

Re: Starter Fluid?

Just got off the phone with the old owner(my Grandpa)..
He said he has done his own tune-ups on the boat since he had it(1990).
Said the plugs hadn't been changed since last year, its definitely time. Wish I could figure the plug's model numbers out without just pulling the old ones since the boat is currently at the lake! Oh well..
Thrasher:
Not sure of a correct cold start procedure. Grandpa said he turned the key and it would start. Will try to research a lil bit on this!
Bubba: Sounds worth a shot! I've printed your suggestion off and will try it this Friday first thing!
Thanks for your suggestions! If you can think of anything else let me know. I will let yall know what happens!

Brian

 

[tysonnathan]

Re: Starter Fluid?

that boat doesnt have efi.... you have to pump the throttle to get the gas flowing if it has been sitting a while. its not like a new car, but more like an old truck w/o efi on a cold morning... if you dont pump the gas then you kill the battery. make sure that you disengage the drive and only use the throttle when you do this though... done by either pulling out on the shifter or pushing the button in the center of it.

 

[WizeOne]

Re: Starter Fluid?

.....Said the plugs hadn't been changed since last year, its definitely time.

I don't know what the MFGR recommendation is but unless you have a real problem forget changing year old plugs. I bet I have not changed my plugs, on a carburated Ford, for 10 years.

That sounds like a long time but it is really relatively few miles equivalent.

 

[Bt Doctur]

Re: Starter Fluid?

Plus if you keep feeding it starting fluid it will graduate from liquid food to
a more solid food diet of pistons and rings.