Posted: September 28 2010 at 22:40 | IP Logged

Hello to all. First post to this site, not sure if this is the right area for me.

Purchased my first boat ever this year, 1981 Chris Craft 253, don't think its a catalina though. Believe my boat to be built by 'Grew' boat builders from Penetang, Ontario. Single 305, alpha one mercruiser outdrive. 1100 hours to date. Purchased from 2nd owner, lovingly cared for, for 19+ years. Live in Greater Toronto area, and boat out of Twelve Mile Bay, Georgian Bay Ontario. Over 75 hours this year so far, so I guess that's not bad for a rookie? Anyways, boat has been great until a recent problem has crept up with what seems like a fuel starvation problem that continues to puzzle. Boat/engine will run fine for some hours, then suddenly after stopping, then restarting, it will not power up over 2000 rpm. Have changed plugs, checked points, condenser, installed new in-line carb fuel filter, water seperator filter, all to no avail, Then tried a new anti-syphon valve at gas tank, and magically, everything was corrected!!...until two weekends later. Same thing all over again. Local tech suggested knocking out check ball and spring from valve, which seemingly corrected the problem again...until the Sunday of last weekend. Don't think it's my fuel...tank inspected and doesn't show debris or water. Could this be a weakening fuel pump? Replacement is on my schedule for tomorrow...would like to get this solved before putting her away for the winter...Any suggestions from anyone? Thanks in advance!!

Posted: October 22 2010 at 11:31 | IP Logged

rythmstart,

Suggest carefully reinspecting that antiisiphen valve again. As little as a hair can hang that up. The usual symptom is the engine will run up to a certain RPM then sputter but will continue to run below that RPM- classic fuel starvation. You may be mistaken as to the cleanliness to the fuel tank. Eliminate the fuel pump by disconnecting its output and seeing if fuel comes out in a steady stream while cranking the starter with firing the engine (into some sort of container of course- safety 1st!). There is also a screen in the Carborator's fuel input port- may want to check that for crud.

Best, Diver