Need A Good Swmo Outboard Mechanic

[Forsythian]

Hey guys, I've got a Mercury 9.8 HP. I believe it is an early 80s model.

The thing runs like a champ on starter fluid sprayed straight in the carb, but will not run otherwise.

I've done the diaphram kit thing, to no effect.

Tips would be appreciated, as would recommendations for a reputable shade tree mechanic in the Spfld/Branson area.

thanks!

Ken

[mosouthpaw]

sounds like your carbs/jets/reeds are gummed up.

[Forsythian]

Not a lot of responses... mebbe this isn't the right venue!

anyways, a buddy in the Clever area is taking a look at it. I was gonna tear down the carb as far as I dared and sonicate the sucker, might still wind up doing that before all is said and done.

[Dutch]

Ken, I could probably get my "comes by tech" to work on it if you still need to get it fixed. Let me know and I will see what I can work out.

[Guest kevinkirk]

Sounds like you need to toss it out and buy a new one. That is how we do it in America...hah..sorry. Outboards are so temporamental. Altho smaller ones seem easier to work on. Do they have a fuel pump or just the diaphragm

[Forsythian]

Kevin, it's the diaphram style, and I've replaced it to no avail.

Dutch, thanks very much for the offer... we'll see how my buddy does with it first.

[Sherwood Flycaster]

Well I'da started a new topic for this, but considering it's regarding a nearly identical motor, forgive me if I share yours.

I'm using a 9.8 Merc Thunderbolt 110 of a mid seventies variety. Borrowed from a neighbor who had it just sittin in the garage takin up space(He wont sell, dernit). Heck of an upgrade on my late 60s 14ft Sears V-bottom from the trolling motor I normally use....but anyway-

She starts up just fine, idles real good and slow runs without problem. When I give'er the juice though, she coughs and sputters sendin us all herky jerky down the lake. Lookin for any clues as to the problem. Thanks if you have an opinion to share....

[mosouthpaw]

Hey guys, I've got a Mercury 9.8 HP. I believe it is an early 80s model.

The thing runs like a champ on starter fluid sprayed straight in the carb, but will not run otherwise.

I've done the diaphram kit thing, to no effect.

Tips would be appreciated, as would recommendations for a reputable shade tree mechanic in the Spfld/Branson area.

thanks!

Ken

have a mechanic look at your outboard. Your fuel lines may not be rated for use with ethanol. That might cause your lines to breakdown and the debris might be clogging your jets.

But basically your carbs arent getting fuel. My guess is gummed up jets. Have your mechanic check the fuel lines and replace with ethanol approved lines.

A motor that old may have non ethanol compliant fuel lines.

Like my earlier post im thinking jets and bowl is gummed/clogged.

sherwood, id bet if you changed out fuel lines and run some quickleen you might solve your problem.

[Forsythian]

Hey guys, just got a call from my buddy... says she is now purring like a hockey mom! It was some aspect of the carb inner workings, he didn't explain but he said it was simple and all I owe him is some hog mollie filets this winter!

Sherwood, good luck to you. A diaphram kit is an easy and cheap place to start, all you need is your serial # and google to get started.

ps, I know a guy (Jeff) who runs a pontoon boat on Sherwood with his 3 little crumbsnatchers and his super-fine mrs.! Ever run into them?

[Dutch]

Glad you got her going so easily.