I have taken my boat out twice this year and she is running great but when I first start the engine & I am at idle and standing near the rear I can smell what to me , seems like a mixture of exhaust and fuel. FYI Before I start the engine I open the engine compartment and turn the blower on, which has been replaced this off season and is running great. When I smell the fuel mix at idle I also turn the blower on and it diminishes and seems to disappear all togather once I get going and seems fine when I return to the marina. My question is does this sound like normal SOP or is there a concern . When the boat is ideling and after I shut it off I check for gas leakes and cannot find any problems. There is no discharge into the bilge area or the water and my gas seems like it is burning at a normal rate. I believe it is just like most I/O motors and is normal but I would rather be safe than sorry. Im new to boating and I am learning more and more every day so thanks for being understanding.
Fuel smell
- Thread starter VEGAS RAY
- Start date
H2ONUT
Well-Known Member
I would get the carb re-built. Or do it yourself if your mechanical. Get a manual, they are a big help. It will also give you the correct mixture adjustments.
I was thinking some thing along those lines also but like I said it is running strong and I have a feeling the previous owner had it set for the hotter temps here in vegas. I think I will wait and see how she runs when it gets hotter out and then look at maybe rebuliding the carb during the off season. Thanks for your reply.
H2ONUT
Well-Known Member
You might just need a carb adjustment, or even timing. Whatever, sounds like an easy fix.
Oh I doubt its anything major I just want to run it the best I can. Thnx
douglee25
Well-Known Member
If it's fuel you're smelling, it's nothing to mess around with. Get it checked out by someone if you're unsure. I wouldn't necessarily suspect the carb just because you have a gas smell. Possible, but not 100%.
Doug
Doug
I talked to my mechanic and he said it was the choke. If it continues he suggested removing the choke as its not needed in this climate. He also said at idle this is some what normal as gas and exhaust are not sucked out of a boat engine like in a car system and I should also run the blower if idling for an extended period of time. Next time out I am going to re check the whole thing and if it continues I will have to have it checked out further. Thnx every one for your input.