Operator Error
A common reason for an outboard to not run properly is due to operator
error and is the first check.
Before operating your outboard it is wise to read and understand the owners’
manual. This has information on pre-start checks, oil and fuel recommendations
and starting and running procedures that must be followed in order to get the
best from your outboard.
4 stroke EFI outboards must have fresh fuel and a good quality
fully charged battery of the manufacturers recommended capacity.
The emergency stop lanyard should be in place.
The stop switch should be in the run position.
The fuel line should be connected to the outboard and the primer
bulb should be primed up hard.
The fuel line should not be kinked or crushed under the tank.
The fuel vent on top of the fuel tank should be open.
There should be fuel in the tank.
The fuel should be fresh. Petrol needs to vaporise in the
cylinder before it will ignite. Old fuel takes too long to
vaporise and the fuel is not completely burned at each power
stroke which causes running problems.
The throttle should be in the correct position. Some outboards
are very hard to start or won’t start with the throttle open
whereas some outboards need the throttle open to start.
The choke should be used as required. A cold outboard usually
needs choke to start.
If the outboard has been choked for too long it may be flooded.
The best way to overcome a flooded outboard is to open the throttle as
much as possible and attempt to start the outboard. This will allow extra
air to get into the cylinder to lean out the fuel/air mixture to allow it
to start.
The choke should be returned to the running position after starting.
Some outboards have a cold start enricher. The enricher tap should be in
the correct position for running and for cold starting.
- Contact Cairns Outboard Service for your outboard service requirements.