Expert: Everett Peacock - 6/28/2010

Question
Dear Expert,

I have just bought a boat with an Evinrude 1984 V6 185 hp outboard motor (E185TLCRS) that has been serviced last autumn but not run after that. Unfortunately, I have not succeeded to get it going and as a novice boat owner I am uncertain of the problem(s).

I have managed to get the engine running when the "fast idle lever" (part number 40 in http://www.boats.net/parts/search/BRP/EVINRUDE/1984/E185TLCRS%201984/REMOTE%20CO...) is raised. What amazes me is that the propeller runs effectively even the remote control handle (part number 21) in the middle position, i.e., pointing up. (Is that the correct position to for the remote control handle when starting the engine?) If I try to lower the "fast idle lever" into its' lowest, horizontal position, in order to properly engage gear, the engine always stops immediately - even if I have let the engine run for several minutes with high revolutions by keeping the "fast idle lever" raised high. Where is the problem and what should I do?

I have tried different positions of the "knob & friction adj. screw assy." (part number 39), but I guess that has no meaning in this problem. What does the "knob & friction adj. screw assy." precisely adjust?

I have also tried to adjust the "manual valve" (part number 27 in http://www.boats.net/parts/search/BRP/EVINRUDE/1984/E185TLCRS%201984/INTAKE%20MA...) but I am unsure of the best position. What is the meaning that valve and how to adjust it properly?

Sometimes, when I turn the starter key of the remote control clockwise, the remote control starts a loud, continuous audio alarm that does not end until I turn the key more of less back, i.e., counterclockwise. However, the required counterclockwise turn has at least in some cases been so small that I have succeeded keeping the engine running (the "fast idle lever" raised and the remote control handle in the middle position). What are the possible causes of the loud, continuous audio alarm?

Answer
the engine should start with the warm up lever in the down position when warm...if not then either the idle speed is set too low or it is not running on all cylinders...hit the choke when trying to idle if it helps then the3 carbs need to be cleaned....the horn will sound solid when the engine overheats, or the oil tank level is low or the vro is bad..