Expert: Everett Peacock - 10/6/2008

Question
I bought a new Honda BF8 Classic about a month ago.  We found an urgent need, in the middle of our sailing vacation, for a new motor.  Consumer reviews consistently rate it as an easy-starting reliable motor.
It probably took about 30 pulls to get started the first time.  Being a warm day I had been reluctant to use too much choke.  Ultimately, the choke is what got it going.  What concerns me is that it continues to require an average of 20 pulls to get started when cold.  Warm, it restarts easily.
During the vacation I left the fuel line connected 24/7 and each cold start was preceded by bring the fuel line up to pressure, pulling the choke on and ensuring throttle was at the start position.  After a number of pulls, I would test the primer bulb and repressurize the line when necessary.
Sometimes the line would need it and others, not.  Regardless, it averages 20 pulls when cold.  When it finally catches, it does so easily.  What I mean to say is that once I hear combustion taking place, it usually starts in the next pull or two.  Up until that point there's no indication of it firing.
The dealer says that I should check the drain screw on the carburetor (on the float bowl?) to see if gas is getting to it before I bring it in for warranty service.  I find that a little sketchy.
First, I don't want to be working on it in the marina for possible fuel spills.  They're very diligent and fine accordingly.  This means bringing it home to work on and if it's already in the car, why not take it to the dealer?
Second, what's the story with the pressure dropping in the fuel line?  Although it doesn't seem to have any bearing on whether or not it starts, I just don't understand how it could happen without a defect in the priming bulb check valve.  And couldn't this be a possible future problem?
Thank You very much for your time!  Brad Gray

Answer
it should start when cold with the choke full on with in 2 or 3 pulls....when it starts push the choke in..it should keep running then..as for the fuel line  pump the bulb untill firm  and it should not go flat, make sure the fuel tank vent is open...