Fuel issues with 240 Sundeck 5.0L Merc.

[LPGG]

:smt021Just got my '02 240 SunDeck back from being repaired. Had an alarm going off that was apparently the block pressure sensor, so that was fixed - no more alarm. The main reason I sent the boat in was to address a "surging" problem at higher throttle/rpm's. I can cruise all day at 3200-3400rpm or around 32mph but if I try to throttle up the engine starts bucking and almost goes into a stall if I don't back off the throttle. The shop replaced the IAC (Idle Air Control) thinking that was the culprit, but I told them that was doubtful. I took the boat out this past weekend and it immediately exhibited the same problem. Now all I can figure is that the fuel pump is bad. Anyone else had this experience? Any advice? I am currently unemployed and cannot afford to be dumping money into my boat right now. Hopefully this is an easy fix, but I haven't had anyone confirm that for me or even diagnose the problem correctly yet. Thanks in advance. :smt100

 

[bartlett]

It may be as simple as condensation or contamination in the fuel. You may want to replace the fuel filter and some have a fuel water separator that can just be emptied. Then add a fuel additive such as Starbrite or another reputable fuel additive.

 

[LPGG]

Thanks for the reply. I'm sending it back to the marine repair shop tomorrow. Maybe they'll catch the problem the second time around.