Old Merc 30 Hp two stoke? any one own one?

Question

Bought a older boat that came with a 30hp merc on the back. Not even sure of the year of it. Think it is the late 80 or early 90 prehaps. Looks new, even under the cowling is very clean. All i been able to do is put it into a garbage can and fire it up. It starts almost right away without any starter run on. Shifts into gear smoothly. Problem is after idling for a few minutes , it kind of burps and quits like a misfire. starts right up again. Before you ask, i am sure it needs some tlc. But is this model even worth the effort to get it idling better? or just a old motor that should be put to pasture? I \could buy a much newer motor, more power and better gas ect.....but if this one is even so-so on power, ect....why not run it out? plus also the cost factor of buying a new motor . I need to know if anyone has run one of these... buythe way..it will be pushing a 14 foot fiberglass some what deep hull..and pretty heavy .phew...thanks!

Answer 1

I would guess that when you prime the bulb till it is hard the engine starts and runs for a couple of min,then it quits.That tells me that you have a fuel problem that could be several different items.

1)Insure that ALL fuel connections are tight,air leaks are the biggest problems.

2)After the engine quits is the primer bulb soft or flat.If so that tells you two things,

    a)the fuel pump is working

    b)fuel connections to bulb are tight

  3)If the bulb is still hard you would be looking at a fuel pump problem.

35 years as a marine tec.

Answer 2

It may just need new fuel filter.  Check the fuel tank to make sure it's clear of rust particles. I would not buy a new engine, but run this one until it breaks, which may be a really long time.  It should push your 14 foot boat at a fairly exhilarating pace.