engine problem

[gettum]

My boat has a 350 Chevy engine, about 10 years old but low hours. It runs fine when I open it up, but it has a hard time running at low rpm. It can't maintain a constant rpm and when it dips too low the engine conks out. Had to set the idle pretty high to be able to troll, and the only reason I can do that is, it has a trolling plate. Another problem is that with the high idle I make a bit of a wake in the no wake zone of the marina where I am docking and there are always a few jerks who take offense at a few tiny waves. Still, I don't think that this surging is normal behavior for the engine. What could be wrong? Any suggestion would be appreciated.

[Chairman]

Check the carb. It sounds like after 10 years it could use a rebuilding. The low speed jets and air passages get clogged and will cause the problems you described. I would recommend a new one however a good speed shop can probably get yours back to near new condition. Plan on spending about $200 either way.

[eek]

Sounds like carb problems, most likely idle mixture adjustments or even an inhaled base gasket, or possibly a stuck open EGR valve. Either way, you might be better off going to a reliable boat mechanic to get it fixed unless you have the tools and experiance to tune up/repair the fuel system yourself.

[RANGER]

I completely agree, it's the carb. I would rebuild it or get it rebuilt by a competent shop. Or, buy a rebuilt.


RANGER


"KEEP YOUR LINES WET, YOUR POWDER DRY and THE BEER COLD!"

[Schmitty]

When was the last time you had a tune up?
10 years ago they still used points.
They are probably shot.
Replace the plugs.
Install new points set at .016 and set the time at 8 degrees before top dead center replace rotor and cap and I would bet it will run fine.
Check the plug wires.
Also change the fuel filter.
Hope this helps.
Schmitty

[AquaMan]

Bingo, Shmitty.

Tune up would be the order of the day on this rig.

Fuel Filter, Plugs, Wires, Cap and Rotor. If that does not fix the problem your carb is due for a cleaning/rebuild. Rebuild kits are available for about $120.

Also, while the motor is running pour some SeaFoam down the carb until it floods the motor out and off. Let it sit for about 30 minutes. Start the motor and rev it up to about 1200 PRM. It will blow white smoke, but you will clean out your valves, intake and exhaust. This should not be done on the water. Use a water muff on your lower unit or water pick-up with your garden hose.

Add a can of SeaFoam to a full tank every 3rd or 4th tank to keep the carb clean.

AquaMan~~~~~~~~~~~~~

.·´¯° --- "It all begins and ends at the water's edge"

Eric@crowncomputerinc.com

[gettum]

Thanks a lot for the input! I try the simple stuff first, but am afraid that the carburator is sure to be next.