Merc kicker question

[WheresMyBobber]

I've been having problems getting fuel into and starting my kicker (8hp Merc). When I pump the bulb, I can feel fuel moving through the line, but it will not pump full. (I don't hear any air leaks while pumping) Because of this, the motor won't start some of the time unless I take off the cover and give it a shot of starting fluid, then it will start and run fine.

I replaced the fuel line, fittings and bulb, so that should narrow it down to the carb or gas tank.

Has anyone else had this problem? If so, what did it turn out to be?

[jet]

Bobber


This might not be the problem but I did have a problem with my 92 8hp (rough run and stalled alot). I went through plugs all the time . On your exhaust ports do you have one small hole and one large hole? their was a problem with the motor breathing and their was a recall. the small hole needs to be drilled out to match the large hole. You will need to drill with a 1/4" bit and enlarge the small one. My run problem was cured. Ask around, call Stevens marine about this but do not take it there.

Jet~~~

[Doubletake]

I had a similar problem with my 80 Merc. plus it would just quit running when I was on plane. It got worse and worse, I replaced the hose, ball, fuel pump, etc.... then I just happened to have the cap of the fuel tank and was pumping the ball and could hear it sucking air. The pickup tube had gotten brittle and had a crack in it that apparently was getting bigger. Anyway I replaced the pickup tube in the tank and it ran fine.

Hope this helps.

Take care and good luck

Doubletake

[jawbreaker]

WMB, I have had this happen several different times and every time it was something different. First check to make sure that there is no water in your fuel by pouring some into a glass or jar. If there is water
in your gas then it will settle to the bottom of the jar. You probably have already checked this but check your fuel filter for
dirt or clogging. Once a bumble bee was somehow stuck in the filter and cut off my fuel supply. Also, I've always been told never to use starting fluid on a 2 stroke
because it creates dry spots on the pistons
and will prevent proper lubrication and as a
result cause serious damage. hope this helps
good luck. http://www.ifish.net/forum/images/graemlins/smile.gif

[Pete]

I have an 89 Merc 8. I had the exact symptoms you did. When you get air in the line, the syphon bulb loses traction. You should eliminate the possibility that a crack or swollen tube is causing the problem. Then try this ... lift the tube up high to get the bubble to rise to the top, squeeze the bulb and hold it, put your finger over the end of the tube to prevent it from sucking air, then release the bulb. Repeat this until you get the air out of the tube. You may need to poke the valve open with a pencil or something when you squeeze the tube, but don't poke until you squeeze or you'll just make the problem worse.

[WheresMyBobber]

Thanks for all the help and suggestions, they're all valid and I'll be checking into them. I'm sure I'll be able to track down the problem using the checklist you guys have collectively provided.

Thanks again!