Expert: Everett Peacock - 3/18/2008

Question
Hey Mr. Everett,
            I hope you can help. I have a 1981 model johnson seahorse outboard. It is a 35 horse pull start. I got it out of storage last week after sitting app. 1 yr.Just so you know I have owned this motor app. 10 yrs and it has always started and ran perfect even after storage.  I mixed fresh gas and also added a fuel system additive/stabilizer made for outboards.The first trip was not good It did not want to start and when it did it would run awhile and then die.After this I replaced the fuel tank,fuel line and connectors. The next trip it ran better but seemed to not be getting fuel. If I pumped the bulb it would continue to run but if not it would die. I replaced the fuel pump and it seemed to run great other than an occasional sputter.I then cleaned the carb even though it really did not look bad However I did not replace with new gaskets The ones on it were in great shape though.Now it seems to idle rougher and    after fishing awhile did not want to crank and again I  had to pump the bulb to get back down river. Would not replacing the carb with new gaskets cause this? Any suggestions?  I am  at wits end.
                                                Thanks,
                                                     Robbie  

Answer
It mat be that cylinder to cylinder wall clearance is to big.( Worn out)  The fuel pump works off of crankcase pressure and vacum, if there is too much clearance it will not pump correctly.
 Make sure the fuel tank does not have a restriction in the fuel flow.
 Make sure the tank is well vented also..