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Posted on Jul 12, 2009
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I have a 1984 35 hp Mercury outboard that will start but spit and sputter and run for aboout 10-15 seconds then die. I've already rebuilt the carb and added fuel treatment to the tank. Anyone with any advice on what I should do next?

  • Anonymous May 11, 2010

    get rid of the fuel, fuel treatment don't get rid of water. Did you leave the vent unscrewed on the tank? get any amount of rain? A little water in the fuel can cause a lot of trouble. I would go get a new tank, fresh fuel, new fuel line and bulb. Then i would pull the drain bolt on the front of the carb and spray a liberal amount of carb cleaner into the drain hole to push out all the contaminated fuel, reinstall the drain bolt, connect new fuel tank and line, and fire her up. let me know how it works, I think ou'll be suprised. A little water in fuel can cause alot of trouble.

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Fill a gas can with straight gas, the disconnect the primer bulb and hose ( enough to insert into the gas can). After you insert the hose into the gas can disconnect the fuel line above your fuel filter. Prime the bulb until fuel runs clear, then re-attach the fuel hose (the one with the filter). Finally remove the drain screws (brass color) off the carburetor or carburetor's, then prime the bulb again until fuel comes out clear (from the drain screws). Spray carb cleaner into the holes of the removed screws. Then replace everything as normal and prime bulb running off your normal gas tank. Re-choke your engine and start it. If this starts easier and better, then you know its your gas.

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  • Posted on Jul 14, 2009
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Replace the fuel filter and spark plug and if 2 stroke check fuel mixture

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  • Posted on Jul 26, 2009
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Have you checked the CDI module for a cracked wire or rubbed wire yet?

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