2000 90 HP Mercury Outboard Question

[David Frank]

I have a 2000 90 HP 2 stroke Mercury that has been very cold blooded the first time I start it on any given day ever since I bought it. I always squeeze the fuel bulb until firm and it holds pressure, so I know that isn't the problem. I often have to give it quite a bit of throttle in neutral in order to get it to fire, and then let it idle for a while before engaging the motor until it warms up or I kill it when I put it in gear. The previous owner and myslef have run nothing but premium gas through this motor. After the first start of the day, it always starts like a dream (barely have to touch the key and it fires right up). Aside from this one issue, I have not had any other problems with this motor and have been very satisfied.

Any ideas or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

[archerystud]

I have a 1999 115 Merc and I always thought the same thing about mine.

Here is what I found worked best for me. After I get the bulb firmed up and the engine fired I keep choking it just a little bit when I hear it start to sputter. This keeps it running and after about 30-45 seconds the engine is warmed up and runs nice.

[MuskieJunkie]

I had a 2001 90 HP and mine was always the same way, with the exception of the starts like a dream after part.

I use to do the "hit the choke when it sputters" deal too.

[marine_man]

These motor are notoriously cold blooded. There's not much getting around that unfortunately. As the others have recommended, when it sounds like it's about ready to die, give the motor a quick choke (push the key in and release) and it should pick up for a little bit.

marine_man

[overdalimit]

I see that alot at the resort. The older merc 3 and 4 cyl seem to be hard starting in the morning. just the nature of the beast with the old carbed 2 stroke Mercs/Mariners/Force.

[Ralph Wiggum]

I see that alot at the resort. The older merc 3 and 4 cyl seem to be hard starting in the morning. just the nature of the beast with the old carbed 2 stroke Mercs/Mariners/Force.

I've got a '93 60 HP, 3 cylinder that fires up like a dream.

[boatfixer]

They can be hard starters. My Dads 80 was, for the most part a bit touchy, but with some tweaking of the idle mixture, I'm able to get it to start cold pretty good.

[overdalimit]

Just a thought take it in and have it timed with a dial indicator. Might be just a couple of degrees off.

[berfish]

David....

Do a search on 90hp Merc on the forum. I had the same issues as you descibe....for the most part. Also read the entire Amsoil? post. Maybe something there will help. Good luck.