Help - 197? 50HP Merc

[bubbles]

I have an "oldie but goodie" 50HP merc that has a slight attitude lately and I am looking for some advice.

Everytime I try to fire it up it takes a long time to get it going, maybe 5 minutes of trying or so, turns over well, just wont fire. Here is the kicker, if I fire it in the drive way no issues, and once it has been running in the water it fires within 1/2 a turn. I can be out all day, starting and stopping the motor and will not have the issue again, ...................................until next time I put it in the water ofcourse.

 

My motor has been doing this for a couple years now and I would like to fix it if at all possible.

 

Thanks

Kev

[MuskyBill]

I have a 1989 Merc 40 that does the exact same thing.

 

Sorry, no advice to offer. I just keep doing the same thing.

[Dara]

Them Black things sure make you look good at the launch eh

[MuskyBill]

For sure....I'm actually in the habit of dropping the electric in so I can get away from the dock, if it's busy, then start the ignition sequence....

[danbo]

Check that there's a spark at the plug.

Then get your carb cleaned & re-built & jetted.

Check that fuel pump is working.

Take 2 Aspirin & find a Mechanic..