OKAY -

I have had some interesting challenges with the ol' merc outboard this year and need to know what some of my wrench head angler brothers and sisters think about this one.  The boat runs very strong down the lake at high rpm, but I have difficulty starting after some down time  while fishing.  Turns over, but behaves as though it is out of fuel.  I test the ball and it is empty.  Takes twenty-thirty pumps to fill it up with fuel again and then I get it fired up.  Runs real strong then at high RPM, but if I am a slow plane, it is cutting out.  I also noticed a small sheen after I pumped the bulb up.  The fuel pump is working fine and I did not notice any thing out of the ordinary when we returned to the boat ramp and I pulled the cowling.  My theory is that I have a bad bulb and/or leaking fuel line that is sucking air.  I intend on replacing the section of fuel line and the bulb to see if that cures my problem.  Anybody else have any thoughts.  Other than that the boat screams.....

Kirk

I had the same problem with my Merc 225 on the Cobra.  I went to the Mercury Outboard forums at WWW.BBC.com and got this answer.  Replace the fuel bulb.  I did and no more problems.
NUFF SAID!

Smitty

Only suggestion I have would be that the fuel line has been contaminated somewhat and has caused the rubber to deteriorate.  Either way, replacing bulb and rubber line should do the trick.

Mark

Kirk,

That small sheen you see is the Banana Juice.
Russ

From Mike W.  "It has to be the ball. But replace all the hose."........    Jeez, Mike, if you must know, the hose is clear and fully functional at last report, and the ball, though it may be sagging a bit and needs replaced, has performed admirably for some time.................this is really the first time I have had issues of any sort with my motor.  BTW, is the photo the new pad??? 

KH

If you cannot locate the green roofing, I have some old blue tarps and lots of duct tape.  BTW, I did see some pink flamingos at a recent garage sale.  I can probably get tehm for a song for you and Shannon.  She must be so proud......
kh

You can get a little blow up pool for the front also.

I would suggest some home security the BIG Dog on a chain. Of course he lives in the broken down old car next to the trailer.

Carlos