2000 5.0 starting problem

[rforte50]

Hello, new to forum this morning. Just bought a 2000 290 Amberjack with about 230 hours. Changed oil, fuel filters etc. Had a great day on the water, both engines ran and started fine. Next time out, again, both started and ran fine.

While out the second time, stopped and anchored for a while and when I went back to start starboard engine, it cranked, but would not start. Sounded like no fuel. I lifted the flame arrestor and it was dry around the injectors and no fuel smell. Turned key, pushed throttle foward and no fuel injected.

Checked fuel pump fuse....all good. Suggestions please. Heading over to marina to check out. I am good mechanically, but not real familiar with marine engines yet.

Thanks!

 

[SeaRide]

If the engine starts this AM when cold, it could be vapor lock. Try the search function.

Nice boat and welcome aboard.

 

[SeaRide]

If it does start, try idling the engine at 800-1,000 rpm for a couple of minutes with the blower on before shutdown after a good run. Then try starting 30 mins. later.

 

[rforte50]

Thank you. I tried the next day after sitting all night....nothing. I am thinking fuel pump bad, will check voltage to unit. Not sure if the IAC, which I have read about locks out fuel pump operation or not.

 

[Jersey Mike]

Have spark?..if not, replace the distributor pickup.

 

[SeaRide]

IAC is a possiblity. You could switch IACS between the two engines and see if the problem follows. Generally though, you can start the engine with a faulty IAC by giving it half throttle. The engine will die nice you bring it back to idle. I would leave the flame arrestor on while trouble shooting.

 

[rforte50]

Thanks SeaRide. I tried to start at half throttle, still nothing.
I am packing for the marina now.

JerseyMike, thanks, will be checking for spark as well. I also have an OBDC II diagnostic checker for my cars. I think that may plug into the module... see what that comes back with.

 

[rforte50]

Ok fuel pump not pumping. Voltage only rises to 8 volts when I turn the ignition. When I connect operating engine fuel connect to pump it works. Output voltage ~12v. Anyone know what can cause this?

 

[rforte50]

Update:

- both fuel pumps work when powered when pulled from circuit and powered with 12V.
- Swapped Port engine computer - does same thing.
- Swapped out fuel pump fuse, does same thing.
- Poured some fuel down throttle body and motor fires, but will not run.
- moved throttle to half/full throttle and tried to start, still just cranks.
- Swapped Port and Starboard battery....same thing.

HELP!