Outboard Won’t Start: Carb Basics, Flooding, and How to Start a Flooded Motor

In this video we discuss why motors flood, we will disassemble a Mercury 6HP outboard carburetor and review what can cause flooding. Finally we will intentionally flood a motor and walk through how you can quickly unflood and start a flooded motor.
Safety First!
Never start your motor unless it’s in neutral!
Gas is flammable and dangerous, if gas is present kill the motor and all eliminate all heat and spark sources.
Always have a fire extinguisher on your boat.
Always take your motor to a trained mechanic if you don’t understand all the risks and are not trained to do repairs. Motor repairs and flooding can be dangerous.
Starting a flooded motor should only happen if it’s an emergency, it’s best to just let the motor sit and either dry out or just get a tow and take it to a mechanic.
Read your manual!
Here is a video where I did every maintenance item for this Mercury 6HP 4 stroke:: • EVERY MAINTENANCE ITEM...
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WARNING** flooded motors have burnt up cars and boats. They can be dangerous. If gas overflows and hits a hot exhaust it can catch on fire! If you ever see gas dripping or overflowing in your motor, if it is safe to do so kill your motor, close your fuel valve, make sure all heat sources are away from your motor, and assess your situation. You are responsible to assess and safely react to your own situation. Never try to restart a motor that is dripping or overflowing with gas. It is dangerous. These starting procedure are only for minor flooding caused by the motor being flooded due to starting user error or if you need to start it in an emergency. If you have a mechanical issue causing your flooding, DO NOT TRY TO START THE MOTOR. Get to a safe place, assess the situation, and get a trained mechanic to fix the mechanical issue before restarting.

[@aquaxious]

Just wanna let you know I’ve been sitting in the middle of the lake for an hour. This video saved my life. Thank you kind sir.

[@Skinnyriver]

Sorry you had trouble, we’ve all been there. Glad the vid helped. Thanks!

[@EandFreyArt]

Sorry to be a downer but there is an easier way to get it running without all of that effort. I am a clammer in Massachusetts and go year round clamming. Even in 10 degrees. I have used a mercury 20 hp 2 and a 4 stroke for 21 years. To prevent flooding, don’t pump the ball ever. If flooded, pull the gas line off and pull the cord and clear the gas. Pull until it fires up then attach the gas hose back on. Simple fix and it has worked on at least a dozen of my friends motors as well.

[@joseph-817-texas7]

Man thank you for the information!

[@koremeltdown7258]

Funny, you can ‘know’ something but when someone lays it out so well it is really helpful. Nice job on the explanation.

[@Skinnyriver]

Awesome, I appreciate the view and the kind comment!! Thank you

[@jonahcouper3084]

Mate cheers the help, engine hadn’t been run for months , engine was flooded, did no choke full throttled and the engine turned over first pull. Absolutely unreal 🤙🏾

[@Skinnyriver]

Awesome, I appreciate the view thanks!

[@daves6197]

Been banging my head against the garage. Drove around for 2 hours, took outboard off the boat and layed down correctly for drive home. Once home couldn't get started again for an hour. 0 choke, max thottle, started in 1 pull. Thank you thank you thank you!

[@Skinnyriver]

Awesome, glad you got it started!

[@daves6197]

Sunscribed now Brother!

[@emtzack]

It’s funny. I cleaned out my carburetor the other day after letting my boat sit. I couldn’t find a spare gasket, and noticed that the motor was running great, but fuel was spitting out of the sides of the fuel bowl seal on my carburetor. I ordered a rebuild kit, and the gasket fit fine, but I noticed the other parts were a little weird. I put a new float in the carburetor and a new gasket and noticed that it was venting fuel out of the top fuel vent and the motor flooded. I had a feeling it was the new float causing the issue. This video confirmed that, and I switched the old float and needle out and it started the first pull. Two lessons learned tonight: if it’s a good deal on Amazon, it may not be the best quality. And if it doesn’t need to be replaced, don’t go and replace it. Shame on me for not running my boat for over a year!!!!

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah good advice. Sometimes you can do too much. Honestly running you motor to keep things flowing is the most important thing you can do. Glad you got it figured out!

[@user-fj7bs9ul7n]

Great video. Your common sense approach and the tips are great and will help a lot of boaters and fishers. Much appreciated.

[@Skinnyriver]

Thank you! I really appreciate the view and feedback!

[@jdelbo83]

So relieved to find this video. Too bad I found it after absolutely obliterating my shoulder trying to start my outboard for the first time, yesterday.

[@Skinnyriver]

We’ve all been there. I think I pulled my should out of its socket last year, no joke it hurt for 3 weeks. 😂 hopefully the vid helps a bit. Also here is a short vid where I found what my motors problem was kzbin.info/www/bejne/qnWVlpiIbMenjtU

[@thebminusshow]

Felt it in my shoulder blades

[@kamirehaahmaud]

You saved my summer!!! Thanks man very informative and you got me back on the water.

[@Skinnyriver]

Awesome! I learned a lot myself making the vid. Appreciate the the view. Thanks

[@markkobel3590]

Thank you so much for this video! It saved me from my own stupidity. I had started the motor with no problem, then as I was still at the dock it quit! Spent 40 minutes trying to restart but it wasn't getting gas. I unknowingly had pulled the emergency fuel shutoff lanyard engaging the fuel shut off. You mentioned the emergency shutoff in your video and I knew right then what had happened. I went and reconnected the clip and wallah, motor started and ran great!

[@Skinnyriver]

lol I’ve done that many times 😂 glad you got it going! Thanks for the view

[@kokalol]

Thanks I'll try this tomorrow.

[@Skinnyriver]

Let me know how it goes! Thanks

[@alvinpate1128]

Thanks, This was very helpful with determining and fixing my flooding problem problem.

[@Skinnyriver]

Awesome! Thanks for the view and taking time to comment!

[@bioran]

Great video - helped me yesterday with no choke and full throttle! Thanks!

[@Skinnyriver]

Awesome! I appreciate the view. Glad it helped.

[@kishidabu]

Hey that was really helpful, thanks so much for your easy to understand explanations for those of us who aren't mechanics!

[@Skinnyriver]

Awesome, thanks for the view. Trust me, I’m in the non-mechanics camp myself lol

[@gerardovillarreal6841]

Super helpful video. My outboard flooded. I maximized the throttle and let airflow through the choke. Disconected the gas. And turned on after 2nd pull. Subscribed and liked.

[@Skinnyriver]

Awesome! Glad it helped. Thanks for the sub!!!

[@Capt-Adventure]

Your tips really work on my Rescue Boat engine. Thank you so much.

[@Skinnyriver]

Thanks for the view!!!

[@kensJAMZ]

This saved me on the waters. I simply just trolled for 2 hours and let it dry out. Primed it firm, put throttle just a bit half way, and the motor started up like a champ. Thanks for the tip! I have a 6 cylinder so pulling tjose spark plugs out one by one would've been a bit of a hassle.

[@Skinnyriver]

Awesome, glad you made it back without a tow. We’ve all been there!

[@anncrome1202]

We found this video really helpful in our understanding of how an outboard works and why we were having problems starting our outboard. Thank you very much.😊

[@Skinnyriver]

Thank you so much for the view and the comment. I appreciate it!!

[@werewolf2747]

this helped me a lot with my truck! thank you!

[@Skinnyriver]

Awesome! I appreciate the view!

[@garycleaveland2645]

Great video. Thanks.

[@Skinnyriver]

Appreciate the support as always!!

[@thebminusshow]

Very educational thank you 💪🏽🍻

[@Skinnyriver]

I appreciate the view, thanks!

[@kodywynn]

This video is a life saver. My 3 days old outboard shutdown and won't start. I followed the troubleshooting in this video and it started in a few cranks. Wish I found this earlier. My other motor is identical and is only 40 days old with the same issue. The dealer wasn't able to help and I had to get another one for my trip.

[@Skinnyriver]

Awesome! Thanks for the kind words. I appreciate the view and hope the new motor works really well for you.

[@kodywynn]

@@Skinnyriver Taking it on the water today. At least I know where to go for tips if it does die again. Keep these videos coming man. Love it!

[@gregmoran3702]

I have a basic understanding of how outboard carbs work but your simple language explanation really makes it very clear. Thank you so much. Keep it up.👍

[@Skinnyriver]

I appreciate that. Thank you for the view!

[@3838julia]

Super helpful thanks!

[@andrewcarson9068]

great information video

[@Skinnyriver]

Awesome! Thanks for the view and taking time to comment

[@florintancu9352]

Good job for beginners as I am!!!

[@Skinnyriver]

Thanks for the view and comment!! I appreciate it!

[@wood5382]

Nice explanation

[@Skinnyriver]

Thanks for the view!

[@akiramiyazono]

Dude you are the best, my honda metropolitan laid on its side for like an hour and I know it's flooded but I don't know about carburetors. This helped me understand what's up.

[@Skinnyriver]

Awesome! Thanks for the view and taking time to comment!

[@keatonstorm]

Great video!!

[@Skinnyriver]

Thanks for the view! Appreciate the support

[@lochheadk1]

This video was just what I needed. I have an Evinrude 35 and haven't fired it up in over six months. So my wife was watching me get more and more frustrated as I pulled the cord over . . . and over . . . and over, like six thousand times. I finally got so irritated that I pulled up KZbin and found your video. Yep . . . I flooded it! I went back out and per your video, I maxed the throttle and cut the choke. After about 6 more pulls, it fired right up. Thank you for the help!!

[@Skinnyriver]

Awesome! Thanks for the view. My dad had an evinrude. I will aways love them

[@cz3249]

Really good , and sometimes needs to mention “CARBURETOR “ instead of carb

[@mayagiliberti]

Great videos man I really have learned a lot from them, I have a new 5 hp mercury and I still don’t feel it a reliable motor. It takes to long to turn on…. Then it runs well but when you stop it and turn it back on after two minute it dies, sometimes it is easy to turn on again sometimes it takes for ever. I have not even finished the break out period and I’m not liking the motor. I have done the initial pumping for the aux tank and it seems to work on the initial start up but as a girl y really get tired turning on that motor. My previos one one or two pulls max.

[@Skinnyriver]

I feel your pain. It can be frustrating pulling and pulling and it doesn’t start. I’ve never had an issue after it starts and gets warm. If it’s under warranty I would see if Mercury would pay to have a mechanic look at it. You deserve to have something that is reliable especially if you bought it new. If it’s used, you probably need to clean the carb and always use ethanol free gas

[@bfb120409]

Thank you thank you thank you!!!!

[@bouldernelsonbigfoot]

Great Vid.

[@Skinnyriver]

Thanks! I appreciate the view

[@topnotchstudio9234]

Man, thank you so much.

[@Skinnyriver]

Thank you! I appreciate the view

[@Slowf30]

Dude thank you! Straight to the point. You covered everything.

[@Skinnyriver]

Thanks appreciate the view!

[@hunterdashner6644]

Thank you.

[@Skinnyriver]

Appreciate the view thank you!

[@MiloYellowknee]

That little motor is making you a lot of money. (I hope) Great videos.

[@Skinnyriver]

Ha h I’ve milked it to death. Yeah not much money on KZbin without sponsors unfortunately :( I’m also running out of ideas 😅

[@I3lanket]

Great videos. Subscribed. Any tips on engine gate post flooding it when you get home?

[@Skinnyriver]

Hey I appreciate the view and sub! What is the situation when it floods? Sorry I’m not familiar with engine gate post.

[@I3lanket]

Shoot that was a typo. I meant any tips on engine maintenance/things to do post flooding when you get home. Thanks for the responses

[@Skinnyriver]

Other than trying to find the root cause reason why it’s flooding, if it was a one time thing there’s probably not much you need to do. I would kill the gas valve, put the motor in the down position and everything will dry out eventually. There’s not really a need to pull the spark plug or drain the carb.

[@BigCityCountryBoi]

Got a new motor merc 6 using an external tank flooded on break startup...🤬 Remembered watching this video of yours prior started watching it again and had it running before video ended...your the MF-ing man thx bro...🤪

[@Skinnyriver]

Awesome! I flooded mine the first time as well with an external tank. Glad the vid help a little bit!

[@giminel1]

Or just unscrew your carburetor over Flow screw, works for me. Hey, but thank you very much for The tips, i've learned from you how to clean a carburetor🥇

[@Skinnyriver]

Thanks!

[@pcigra]

Can you recommend me if there is some kind of replacement carburetor for the Mercury 3.5hp (some replica that turned out to be good). The original is too expensive for me. Or can You suggest me where could I get a used original one (that would suit me best). Thx

[@danh8751]

I put my 3.5 Mercury in a rubbermaid tub. Started it up. Seen what appeared to be an oil streak coming out of my lower unit. That must be the overflow gas out of those hanging rubber tubes you were talking about

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah mine did that, it’s definitely gas coming out of your carb. Let me know if you keep having problems. Hope you get it figured out. It’s a great motor if can get the starting figured out

[@danh8751]

Skinny River i put my lower unit in a bucket of water today. My choke was at full bore. I pulled my starter rope twice and the engine started to sputter. I pulled a third time and nothing. I turned my choke off. Turned the gas up full throttle. Pull 3 times and it started right up. Thank you for the help

[@Skinnyriver]

Glad you got it started. Sounds like you got something going on with your carb. Are you using an external tank or internal? My best guess is your carb float maybe letting in too much gas or something is causing your carb to pull in too much gas and not enough air. If you are using an external tank, try the internal tank to make sure the external tank is not causing the issue. Sometime they build pressure and force in too much gas

[@davidcooper2516]

Thanks for this excellent video. One part of it confuses me. You say the the key part of starting a flooded motor is to "maximize air flow and minimize gas going into your motor". But then you recommend a starting procedure that involves no choke and 100% throttle. Seems contradictory. Doesn't 100% throttle deliver the most gas possible into the engine? What am I missing here? I have a new (3.5 hours into the broken period) Yamaha 8HP outboard. Runs perfectly when I can get it started, but seems to flood far too easily, and then doesn't start at all until I drain the gas out of the cup and dry out the plugs. Very annoying, to be diplomatic. Advice PLEASE!!!

[@Skinnyriver]

It does seem contradictory. It’s more about the gas to air ratio. Choking restricts air flow because the choke literally covers the hole where air enters the carb. So the motor sucks more gas and less air. The throttle valve opens and closes allowing more or less air in. At full throttle, the throttle valve is open which allows the most air in as possible. Full throttle creates the greatest ratio of air to gas that enters the motor. It may still be more gas than at low throttle but it is much more air which is key. Low throttle = low air to gas ratio Full throttle = high air to gas ratio Sorry I didn’t make this distinction, but you are right. It’s more about the ratio vs the actual amount of gas entering the motor.

[@davidcooper2516]

@@Skinnyriver Thanks so much for your quick and informative reply. I figured out an easy way to effectively vent the cap on my otherwise bloating gas tank, so back pressure is not the cause of my flooding. Your tip about not squeezing the primer bulb too rapidly might be helpful. I'll have a go again tomorrow and see. I'm pretty new to outboards, and having purchased new one of the top rated brands (Yamaha) I was expecting a trouble-free experience, at least for a while. I guess when it comets boating, that is an unrealistic expectation after all. Again, much appreciated! DC

[@tootallofwa]

Opening the throttle lets more air in which mixed with higher vacuum of higher RPMs does use more fuel, but at low vacuum when starting does not draw in as much fuel until RPMs increase, while choking blocks air flow which limits air to the engine increasing fuel to air ratio. Try first cold starting without choke, Choke only when necessary.

[@Skinnyriver]

Great points thanks

[@kerrywages9631]

I really like your videos, very very helpful...I recently acquired a Mercury 3.5 four stroke and would welcome your advice re fuel. Posts clearly want to avoid ethenol if possible. Do you favor a higher octane (ie 94) and will a higher octane be ethenol free? What about additives?

[@Skinnyriver]

I’ve tried high octane and didn’t notice any difference. If you can’t get non ethanol, get an ethanol gas treatment additive. Most also stabilize the gas so it’s really good. I would say the nonethanol with a fuel stabilizer is best. Second best (but almost just as good) is any octane with ethanol and a ethanol gas treatment that also stabilized. I use 360 Marine.

[@kerrywages9631]

@@Skinnyriver Need help....My 3.5 hp Merc is driving me nuts. I can only idle w/ choke...1st start of the season..errrrr....Thoughts on where to start, jets, fuel pump????

[@Skinnyriver]

@kerrywages9631 if it only runs with choke on it means gas is getting to the carb (so probably not fuel pump). Gas is getting to the carb but not enough is getting to the motor from the carb. 90% of the time having to have choke out means there is contamination in the carb jets. I would try some sea foam treatment then look at cleaning the jets.

[@carlosantoniodeclet8005]

Do you have a video on how to adjust valve clearance on that same Mercury 6hp motor?

[@Skinnyriver]

Sorry I have got that far yet

[@georgewashington7444]

Great stuff! Honda 5HP that ran like a top last couple years suddenly giving me fits as it’s not dependable (sailboat Lake Erie) The throttle is limited to 1/2 open upon start up. Any suggestions? Thanks

[@Skinnyriver]

Is it a 4stroke? When you say limited to 1/2 open, does it bog down after going above 50% throttle? Or will it only start at 50% throttle then die?

[@MrKongatthegates]

just like when the toilet bowl float jams up. easy!

[@danegrady9257]

Been taking a ton of notes from your videos! Thank you! Maybe I could ask for your advice here- I got a brand new tohatsu 6hp with external tank. took for ever to get it going out of the box. 50 pulls at least. After that it was fine for the next couple days during break in. Day 3 during cold start the motor dies when choke pushed back in. Then on day 4 it wouldn't cold start at all. I called the company I got it from and they advised it might have too much oil and to drain/replace. I did that and tried again. I finally got it going with the choke in and the throttle up. What are your thoughts. Fuel quality? Too much oil? Something else?

[@Skinnyriver]

I appreciate the views and support! Man that is weird. Tohatsu is (in my opinion) one of the best. Tohatsu makes more small outboards per year than any other company in the world. The chances of an issue out of the box is low (but still possible). If you have to have the choke on or throttle up, it’s definitely not getting enough gas. It really sounds like a fuel supply issue from your external tank. Check the priming bulb to make sure it is staying hard. Also try cracking open the lid to the external tank. These new tanks are sealed and can prevent flow unless you have a “fuel demand valve” Google that term. Also.. Does it have an internal tank as well? Try using it to see if you can isolate your problem to your external tank. I would really look closely at the fuel connection, tank, as it really seems like something is constraining flow to the carb. Finally use fresh gas. If you are using old gas you need to eliminate that as a cause. Get new gas. Let me know how it goes

[@Skinnyriver]

I’m not an expert or mechanic but am familiar with 6hp Tohatsus. If you wanted to have a quick video call while you go through the startup procedure, let me know.

[@danegrady9257]

@@Skinnyriver thanks man! I'll keep you posted if I need to jump on a call with you. I appreciate all the insight!

[@Skinnyriver]

One additional point that happened to me… if your model has an internal tank, and the internal tank’s gas valve is not closed all the way you will lose gas pressure from the external tank into the internal tank causing your carb to starve for gas. Probably not your problem but a silly thing that has happened to me.

[@chiptyipper]

Great video-thanks! Question: When I start the engine, have the choke all the way out, the engine starts, runs for a couple of seconds, but then dies. Should I be closing the choke right away? Increasing throttle? Leave the choke out and let it run for a little bit? It seems like whatever I do, it dies in a couple of seconds, then it gets flooded. Your tip did work after that happens: choke all the way in, full throttle and then it starts and runs. But, how do I keep it running when it first starts?

[@Skinnyriver]

I generally leave the choke out for only a couple seconds then kill it completely with throttle at idle speed. Your motor should run without choke pretty much immediately (unless it’s really cold outside). I would try half choke for a few seconds to slow it to get warmed up. It really sounds like you are not getting the correct fuel/air mixture and need to clean the carb (especially the idle speed jet in the carb). But in the mean time I would start with full choke, after ignition drop to half choke and slightly increase throttle as you go to no choke. Then once it’s purring and warm drop to idle. But honestly this all points to carb needing cleaning or adjustment. It should run pretty Much immediately.

[@chiptyipper]

@@Skinnyriver Thanks, I’ll try that.

[@daiquiri.]

Great video, thank you! I also read this open throttle/push choke in/crank method elsewhere as a potential quick fix for a flooded engine. However my Mercury 9.9 4stroke can only be cranked in neutral, in forward it can't be - I thought it's the same with all outboards, but apparently not.. So is there anything I can do on this particular motor other than wait?

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah you should never try to start your motor in forward, it’s dangerous. You give it full throttle in neutral

[@daiquiri.]

@@Skinnyriver thanks, actually the question was about how to accomplish that because my outboard has the shifter built into the throttle control (so you can't be in neutral and open the throttle by default) but I just realized the "throttle only" button on my outboard which I never used before is there for this particular purpose, so I can open the throttle in neutral to fix a flooded condition.

[@Skinnyriver]

I’m sorry I misunderstood. Here is the owners manual boatworld.ee/assets/Uploads/PDF/Mercury/Kasutusjuhendid/Mercury-paeramootori-kasutusjuhend-8-9.9-hj-ENG.pdf See pg 69. There should be a throttle only button and manual states to advance throttle

[@Skinnyriver]

My 6hp doesn’t have that combo throttle but the throttle only button should work. Let me know how it goes.

[@daiquiri.]

@@Skinnyriver thank you again for your help! fortunately my carb dried out and worked perfectly today but next time I'll know what the button is for and hopefully won't have to paddle again like yesterday, haha..

[@NoGuap]

I love you bro

[@Skinnyriver]

😂 back at ya

[@Andrew-gm5os]

I just got myself a small johnboat my first ever boat, it has a small 6hp outboard Johnson motor. I've been learning a few things from it I know I need my carburetor to be cleaned because i have a hard time starting it. only way it starts is if I pump the gas till I see some gas come from the carburetor. once it reaches there it starts perfectly fine which I thought was normal until this guy said never start it if you see gas coming from your motor. will appreciate it for some ideas

[@Andrew-gm5os]

(so I don't blow up my motor)

[@Skinnyriver]

It really depends on where gas is leaking from the carb. You may just have a bad gasket or seal and it is leaking when you fill it up when you are priming (not really flooding just leaking). Or you are having to flood it because your carb is dirty and your motor is not getting enough gas. Either way I would say the best thing to do is take it apart, inspect it, clean everything, and maybe replace the gaskets with a rebuild kit. Your motor won’t blow up but there is always a fire risk if you have gas leaking. Once it starts, Do you have to keep the choke on or will it run perfect once it starts?

[@NinoSpinner]

Ciao, complimenti per il video Come mai il filtro della benzina è tra la pompa benzina e il carburatore? Non sarebbe meglio metterlo prima della pompa della benzina? Poi volevo chiederti la pompa della benzina ha solo 2 tubi? Uno in cui entra e uno in cui esce? Chiedo perché ho trovato pompe benzina con 3 tubi

[@Skinnyriver]

buona domanda! Penso che il filtro del carburante sia dopo la pompa del carburante perché la pompa del carburante dovrebbe lavorare di più per estrarre il gas dal serbatoio. la pompa del carburante è progettata per gestire l'alta pressione sul lato di uscita ma non sul lato di ingresso. Penso che a volte ci siano 3 tubi perché alcuni hanno un bypass per quando il carburatore è pieno e la valvola del galleggiante si chiude. la pompa del carburante non si spegne quindi fa ricircolare il gas fino all'apertura della valvola del carburatore

[@modafoka24]

Man, this video is gold. I got a 5 hp yamaha with an external fuel tank option. If i keep squeezing the prime ball to long, will this also flood the carb? I noticed that fuel leaks from a hole at the fuel pump when i pump the ball. I think my float needle is stuck, or i pump the ball too much. Normaly the float needle closes the inlet. But because there is an external fuel tank , there is also an extra fuel pump on the carb. In this case , what closes the fuel inlet ? Is it still the float needle or something in this extra fuel pump?

[@Skinnyriver]

I have flooded mine through squeezing to fast and hard. If you squeeze slow and easy you allow the float to work. The needle valve is perpendicular to the inlet so you can’t usually over power it, so squeeze slow and easy until the prime bulb is firm. When it’s firm the float is up not allowing any more gas in. Many think the prime bulb pressurized the gas tank, it doesn’t on most tanks. It literally just pushes gas to the carb then it basically siphons gas from the tank (no pressure)

[@modafoka24]

@@Skinnyriver thank you for your fast answer and for the high quality videos. You been a great help. Greetings from Holland

[@Skinnyriver]

Man I love Holland, got to visit back in 2012 and absolutely loved it! Hope to go back again!

[@chrisz.9974]

Will a carb that’s too lean run at too high of rpm’s at idle? My 3.5 merc will start fine but then rev high after like 30 seconds. Previous owner put a carb with a pilot screw in it. The original carb doesn’t have adjustment.

[@Skinnyriver]

I believe that lean will result in higher RPMs. I believe that all the carbs have a pilot screw however manufacturers have to cover the screw with a cap due to EPA regulations (because it impacts emissions). But yeah, if I was you I would try to adjust a bit. You should hear the RPMs change

[@Erik-Vadee-Veechee]

So it just wont start at all sometimes? Or will it start for a little bit until it bogs out? Mine just plain won't start and I have changed my plugs, my fuel filter and getting ready to rebuild my carb. It doesn't start at all unless I use a drill on my flywheel. Also i have a leaky carb. Any suggestions? Its getting fuel in the lines up to the carb. Its an 88 Evinrude 8hp btw

[@Skinnyriver]

My first guess is your idle jet in the carb is clogged. I definitely would look at pulling the carb cleaning it, use rebuild kit but also use a piece of small guitar string it get a jet cleaning set and clean out the jets. I probably has 2 (and idle jet and a main jet).

[@Erik-Vadee-Veechee]

@@Skinnyriver thank you greatly for a quick response. I might have other questions sometime too 😆

[@StormLaker]

I just got my motor out of the shop for a tuneup. They guy had it running beautifully there, and ran it out of gas. He told me it would 'start a little hard" the first time. This is also a "new to me" electric start motor. I am pretty sure in my frustration I flooded the motor trying to get it to fire off. I "dry started" it in my driveway and only ran it for 1-2 seconds there. Then at the boat ramp.....I couldn't get it to start to save my life. To get back on the road (so to speak), what do I need to do? I unhooked the gas can. I'm going to take out the spark plugs to see if they are wet and leave them out until next weekend so maybe the cylinders can air out? I can't rev the throttle on this motor without putting it in gear btw. Thoughts?

[@Skinnyriver]

There is generally a throttle rev button, all motors can be rev’d in idle. If it was running at the shop, then it ran out of gas, now won’t start… it sounds like a gas supply issue or a starting procedure issue. What model and year is it? Was it running before you took it to the shop or is it a new to you motor?

[@Skinnyriver]

You should have a throttle only button to rev in neutral www.reddit.com/r/boating/comments/3luy0q/mercury_30_hp_throttle_only_button/ but honestly I don’t think it’s a flooding issue if it started and ran at the shop

[@StormLaker]

@@Skinnyriver I'll have to look for that......I talked with my father-in-law (previous owner for 20 years), he always just hit the on button and it usually just started in idle on the first crank. There's a dial on the tiller handle, but I think that adjusts the tension of the twist throttle?

[@StormLaker]

@@Skinnyriver I got a little happy with the primer ball and the primer plunger on the motor, lol.

[@japyoo2248]

If I pull the choke out does it give more gass or more air?

[@Skinnyriver]

More gas, less air

[@recfishnsw7129]

I wish I stayed as calm as you. My 2 stroke is about to become an anchor! Randomly flooding while running, then comes good then floods and coughs and dies for a bit. I swear its possessed. I did a rebuild and clean of the carbe, thinking the bulb diaphram has split, but the little bitch is still playing up. 10 years its been a perfect engine. I'll check the float and needle again. Its the randomness that makes it difficult to diagnose.

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah that’s frustrating. Randomness is always a pain when you’re trying to diagnose. Try to find a common element (trim position, RPM level, internal vs external tank) when it acts up try pumping the priming bulb to make sure it’s not a gas supply issue. Good luck

[@ballhawk387]

How to begins about 8:00, if you're having trouble and want to get the engine started ASAFP.

[@ballhawk387]

​@@Skinnyriver Very well done, clear and understandable. Lots of great info for future reference. Happy to give a little "assist" to use sports terms. Keep up the good work!

[@Skinnyriver]

Thanks man, I appreciate it. I deleted my comment. It’s a good point and thanks for the time stamp. It’s just funny how many people post negative comments just to argue. Sorry I jumped to that. Thanks again

[@ballhawk387]

@@Skinnyriver That's the internet for you. But most of the comments here are overwhelmingly positive, and I certainly found the info and explanation very helpful.

[@MrBonito22]

Had same problem today on new 6 hp 4 stroke. Did everything you suggested but still wont start.

[@Skinnyriver]

Sorry seems your issue maybe a bit more involved. If it’s new you shouldn’t have any of these issues. Have you tried using both the internal and external tank? Sometime internal tanks can lose prime.

[@MrBonito22]

@@Skinnyriver Thanks for reply. I only use external tank. As still under warranty getting dealer to pick up motor from boat at marina to check it out.

[@Skinnyriver]

Let me know what they say. Got me curious

[@ZenTime996]

What would you do if your motor is flooded so much it’s leaking fuel?

[@robertwhite4734]

Got a 1972 Johnson 9 1/2 outboard motor getting good spark new coils new points but will not start go to be the compression or maybe carburetor it's driving me crazy time is 5:57 today is March 19th 2024 I live in Ohio

[@Skinnyriver]

90% of the time it’s the carb or fuel flow. I would do a compression test to rule that out

[@hellapellanyc6465]

Hi there, I just bought a 2021 used Yamaha 2.5 very little hours. Started it for first time today in a closed loop circuit (my bucket). Was very eager to run it and the only water I could get was from a hot water hose as the cold water supply was closed for the winter. I went through different rpms and ran it max rpms in neutral for probably 2-3 mins, water in bucket was very hot. Engine shut off and made a quick cranking sound. Couldn't get it to start again. Checked compression by putting my finger by the spark plug hole and didn't feel any compression. Put an inline spark plug tester and the tester blinks when I pull the coil. Could the hot water have damaged the outboard? Any next steps to diagnose what needs fixing? Thanks!

[@Skinnyriver]

It’s possible hot water in a closed loop system didn’t provide the needed cooling. There needs to be a decent temp differential between the cooling water and the motor. But I would think anything under 100F should be ok. You usually smell hot oil that burns off the surface of the engine when it overheats, did you smell anything? You need to be 100% sure compression is ok, borrow a tester from someone or buy a $20 one to check. If compression is ok and the motor piston is moving easily when you pull the cord, you are probably ok and it’s something else. Sometimes if it gets hot you foul the spark plug, even though you show spark it could be weak. Also check all wires to make sure nothing melted. I never run mine in neutral at max RPMs because there is no load there is risk of RPMs running too high which causes a lot of excessive heat and wear. Here is a great discussion about overheating and what to check www.thehulltruth.com/boating-forum/765712-1977-15hp-evinrude-overheated-now-won-t-start.html

[@hellapellanyc6465]

@@Skinnyriver Thanks for reply. Just did compression test, it read zero. What would be the next step ?

[@Skinnyriver]

@@hellapellanyc6465 honestly I would go ahead and take it to a shop

[@hellapellanyc6465]

@@Skinnyriver Thanks! Wondering if I should do a leak down test before I go.

[@Skinnyriver]

That’s a good idea, that would tell you for sure. I’ve actually never done a leak down test. Let me know what you find out.

[@turboleggy]

I think gas built up pressure in my tank and flooded my outboard. Upset cause last person that touched it was a mechanic and I thought they would have known to disconnect the fuel line. I just got the boat so I didn't know any better.

[@Skinnyriver]

Sorry to hear that. Let me know how it turns out. Even if it floods, after a while it should be ok. Good luck!

[@turboleggy]

@@Skinnyriver for sure and thank you. I'm gonna do what you suggested before taking it back.

[@randallynch9411]

Looking to upgrade my 5 hp tohatsu 4 stroke to 6 hp. Which carb should I get can't find any info. Any advice

[@Skinnyriver]

I think this is it (even though it says 4HP). I would call them first to confirm www.readysetboat.com/tohatsu-4hp-to-6hp-upgrade-kit-carburetor-and-propeller.html?gclid=CjwKCAjw0dKXBhBPEiwA2bmObXtgofCB6BNeSlm1Lx3dqZs0k76B5DPH4UirISmoNPOURFmfzFkRZxoC938QAvD_BwE

[@randallynch9411]

@@Skinnyriver I have the upgraded prop with came w 5hp

[@randallynch9411]

Thanks

[@Skinnyriver]

Someone said the carbs are exactly the same except the main jet. They said you could possible just change out the jet with a 6hp jet and a get the same result for like $20. Maybe something to look into some you already have the prop

[@Skinnyriver]

The jet simply screws out of the carb. It maybe worth a try. You would need to get the 6hp jet part number off boats.net. I haven’t tried this but it could work

[@ecmsuperjack3571]

I was pulling my old mercury 9.9 2 stroke for about 3 hours wit and it still wouldn’t start so I’m going to pull the plugs

[@Skinnyriver]

I did a quick vid on the top 10 reasons my outboard won’t start maybe try is will help kzbin.info/www/bejne/n3O9YoOda6igms0

[@tomellendorf7236]

I have a coleman 5hp. From brand new it will run but then after i shut it off i cant get it to restart. The next day it will start. Any idea? Trying to do the full throttle trick doesn't work.

[@Skinnyriver]

that is weird. Usually it the other way around, hard to start when cold. Are you using choke when you are trying to restart? There is usually a throttle mark to set throttle to when motor is warm. It is usually around 1/4 throttle. Also next time try to take the cowl off before you stop the motor so the lines cools. There are some weird things happen if motor stays hot under the cowl. Check out this thread, same issue as yours forums.iboats.com/threads/boat-wont-start-when-warm.597632/

[@tomellendorf7236]

@@Skinnyriver yep I follow the starting procedure. I've follow the thread. It just baffles me.

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah sorry I can’t give you a definite. My initial guess was something causing the carb to get too much gas and flood or a gas supply issue (losing prime) once the motor is killed. If it has an external tank hookup I would try an external tank to see if it still does it. If you use an external tank the priming bulb should still be hard when you kill the motor. An external tank would let you reprime everything once motor is killed. Or if you are using an external tank, test if it has same issue with internal tank. That may help you narrow in on the issue

[@terrieboshoff8220]

I have a v4 90 hp Johnson 2stroke ,it has spark and fuel ,but won't start. It did always start and run but my starter jumped up while out and since then nothing . What cam I do

[@Skinnyriver]

It the starter engaging and trying to turn the motor over? Or is the starter just dead?

[@terrieboshoff8220]

@Skinny River it turns the motor over yes but doesn't want to start

[@Skinnyriver]

If you are sure you are getting fuel and spark then you probably have some junk in your carb and need to clean the jets. One more question, what did you mean when you said “my starter jumped up”

[@terrieboshoff8220]

@Skinny River whilst on the water ,I heard krkrkrkrkr and it slowed down and died,so the wires got real hot ...and that how I noticed my starter was ingaged

[@Skinnyriver]

Oh I see. If this was the start of all of your problems, then it’s probably not a carb issue and more likely a mechanical issue with the starter itself. It could have damaged the starter bearings or the spline gear and you are simply not transferring enough power to the motor during starting. Or a wire was damaged and you have a short or open circuit somewhere. This might be worth getting a shop to look at it.

[@gutzfishing7853]

Sup man! Okay so I have a brand new outboard (2 days old) and when I turn it on it’s fine but the second time it was chugging and kicking around… not only that black was leaking from the exhaust (an excessive amount) could it be flooded?

[@Skinnyriver]

Man I doubt it. When you say black was it smoke or black liquid? Is it a 2stroke or 4 stroke?

[@gutzfishing7853]

@@Skinnyriver is a 4 stroke tohatsu 6hp, don’t worry bro got it fixed it was my carb! Appreciate the help man! ✅😁👍

[@Skinnyriver]

Curious what was wrong with the carb? Glad you got it figured out!

[@gutzfishing7853]

@@Skinnyriver released that side bolt and it was absolutely flooded with gas… I ran it two days in a row with the choke open i didn’t know you had to close it have little experience

[@Skinnyriver]

Lol I’ve done that. Hey you were right.. that guy was definitely flooded lol choke just pours gas in there

[@dayliving2020]

Overflow tubes simply rerouting too much gas out of your carb, i don't see an issue there, it happens when you prime too much gas thru external pump, its a safety mechanism, happened to me multiple times, had no issues starting or running motor

[@andyphan3617]

My outboard mercury dies when tilt down . But will start with tilt up. Will die again if I lower the tilt. I’m confused

[@Skinnyriver]

Man that’s weird, my 2 guesses would be: 1) carb float not operating correctly and when you change the tilt it changes the float position. I bet when it’s trimmed down, the float is falling all the way down and letting in too much gas OR 2) the float setting is just wrong and when it’s trimmed down the float is letting too much or tool little fuel. Either way is would start with the float as it really seems like a fuel flow and supply issue.

[@Skinnyriver]

In other words it’s likely your tilt position is impacting your float position and your fuel level in your carb

[@21cranberries21]

Ever since I've had my motor ive had to put it on full throttle while the choke is in and than after I pull i have to quickly turn the throttle back to idle...does anyone know what I have to do to fix it? ...appreciate the help

[@Skinnyriver]

If you have to have full choke and full throttle to start it means you are getting enough gas and your idle jet is probably clogged and needs cleaning.

[@Skinnyriver]

I would clean the jets and see if that helps

[@21cranberries21]

@@Skinnyriver ok thank you ill try that....thanks for the response...cheers from North Bay, Canada 🇨🇦 ....p.s love your channel i will subscribe

[@Skinnyriver]

Thanks for your support, hope you get this figured out. Here is a video I did where I cleaned my carb and the idle jet. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hZ3Tdpqiett2jdk

[@Skinnyriver]

When you start the motor the gas is sent to the motor through the idle jet (or nozzle) in the carb. If it doesn’t start and you have to open the throttle then you are sending MORE gas to the motor through the main jet (there are 2 jets in the carb). I bet if you cleaned the idle jet it would help a lot.

[@DeeHermanson]

I have a huge question for anyone that would know about why my boat is spitting gas out of the tube coming off the top of the carburetor?? I have the exact same engine and it worked fine when I put it away last fall. Any help would be greatly appreciated

[@tootallofwa]

It seems that your float is letting fuel in. Causes, bad needle valve (replace), Float not adjusted properly (when carb is held upside-down float must be parallel with carb body, bend tang at fill needle to adjust).

[@DeeHermanson]

@@tootallofwa hey thanks! The float was the problem. I just cleaned it out good and it was good to go👍

[@terrybull4604]

Do these POS motors have an air fuel mix adjustment? The carb that came with it had the s rew all the way seated. Tried all the tricks. New carb ahas the screw seated as well. New fuel pump. Still flooding. WT???????????

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah but they have a cap over the screw so you can’t adjust it. I think it’s an EPA emission thing requiring them to cover the screw. You can pull the cap off but i think it might void warranty. Not sure

[@TTTT-rc4fv]

Hi I have a little 6 hp Yamaha outboard 4 stroke, was running for an hr perfectly then went to start it up (pulling) and I couldn't get it started, Tried pulling many times over, what do you think the issue could be?

[@Skinnyriver]

That’s weird. Check all the obvious stuff (gas valve open, gas tank vent open, emergency lanyard is attached if it has one). If all that’s good then it’s probably either flooded or it’s a gas issue. Check gas filter to make sure it’s not clogged. BUT more than likely you have some contamination in the carb. I would take it off and clean it. If that doesn’t work change the spark plug. Before you do all of that double check your starting procedure to make sure choke and throttle are in correct position. I have accidentally flooded mine because throttle was in wrong position with choke on

[@TTTT-rc4fv]

@@Skinnyriver Thanks! I will try. To de flood you simply crank on rope a few times with throttle full and choke closed?

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah but after it sits for a few hours it shouldn’t be flooded any more. If you have a hard time starting it every time you probably aren’t getting enough gas vs getting too much. If you smell gas after you try to start it… it’s flooding. But if you don’t smell gas then s probably not flooding. I would check fuel filter to see if there is junk it it, then change the spark plug, then take carb off and clean it. Are you using an external tank? If so try using the internal tank as an experiment. Could be an issue with your priming bulb or fuel lines

[@TTTT-rc4fv]

@@Skinnyriver I took out spark plug and cleaned it. It started up on first stroke with choke on and throttle at the right spot to start. Figured now everything was fine and then it wouldnt idle without turning off. Had trouble starting from there on out and once I would start now it smokes, is leaking black liquid when it runs and smokes then turns off. Fuel filter looks good. Could I just have bad gas with possible water in it? The carb is new from this summer.

[@Skinnyriver]

Check out this webpage www.louisianasportsman.com/fishing/what-is-this-oily-sludge-beneath-my-prop/ Some have accidentally put 2stroke fuel (mixed with oil) in a 4stroke and it did something similar. I would drain all the gas, buy a new spark plug (only $5), spray a cleaner into the engine like the webpage says. I think that will definitely help.

[@21cranberries21]

By the way I have a 2019 mercury 2.5 hp 4 stroke....

[@Skinnyriver]

Nice, that’s a perfect motor for a small setup

[@TheUnknownBrainer]

Help!! No matter what I do fuel still leaks out of carburetor, so far I changed out the pin, the float, new gasket, and fuel pump, it it's still leaking fuel and I also measured the float to factory height nothing has worked 😭

[@Skinnyriver]

Can you tell where it’s leaking from? Top, through the hoses, from the drain screw in the bowl?

[@Skinnyriver]

If it’s overflowing and leaking from the top it’s really only a few things: float is saturated/cracked and not floating, pin is not seating to block fuel flow (contamination maybe), float is catching on something and not raising… ideally find out exactly where it’s leaking from and that will help pinpoint if it’s overflowing or just leaking

[@TheUnknownBrainer]

@@Skinnyriver from the intake hole, I will make a video of it when I get home from work, so basically it'll leak a little when the motor is level but when I tilt it up it just comes pouring out of the three carburetor

[@TheUnknownBrainer]

@@Skinnyriver was not able to make a video cause it was raining, but I did have a buddy looked at it and he still don't know why it's over flowing (new pin new float new gasket) we even tried the water test where you put the carb in the water and blow the tube and it looks good but when put together it over flows still

[@Skinnyriver]

That’s crazy, if it’s not leaking under the water then your pin, float and all that is making a good seal. When you say it’s leaking through the intake. Is that the air intake?

[@allanlavallee7171]

Yamaha motors will not let you maximize throttle unless it is in gear. If in gear you cannot pull the rewind.

[@Skinnyriver]

There is a throttle only button that lets you increase throttle when in neutral. Look up throttle only

[@Mascotal]

Great video. These outboards are bad for flooding. They have poorly made carburetors.

[@Skinnyriver]

Thanks for the view!

[@MARIOSAILOR1]

I like my engine, but the carburador its a real chiit. All years the same, after winter dont Start, carburator problems. I have try all the proceeds, always the same problem.

[@Skinnyriver]

Yeah the passages and jets are so small due to EPA regs that any bad gas or contamination just kills it. I drain the carb and run sea foam through before winter and it has helped

[@MARIOSAILOR1]

@@Skinnyriver i have done the same with no sucess. Yesterday, i was going to Start it after 4 months and i have gasoline going out of the carburator on the 2 tub 🤔😭es...

[@masterkronixster]

good laugh when you mention pulling spark plug off. imagine that 6ft rolling swells it wont start .flooded.. i rather loosen and let it drop. auxiliary motor as a back up outboard that wont fire when you need it is a paper weight.. enjoyed your video new subscriber. cheers

[@Skinnyriver]

Ha yeah good point! That’s for the sub!

[@Skinnyriver]

Regarding your other post about the throttle photo, shoot me an email and I’ll try to get you a photo [e-mail]