How to Troubleshoot a 2-Cycle Outboard
- 1). Turn the engine off and lift the engine out of the water by releasing the engine tilt lever if the engine overheats. Eyeball the water inlets which are below the waterline quite near the propeller. If you see any debris there, like seaweed, or barnacle build-up, it's likely the cooling system is blocked. Flush the system by attaching the flushing attachment and a hose to the vents.
- 2). Check that there's fuel in the tank if the engine cuts out unexpectedly and isn't overheated. Make sure that the tank's air lock is open and check the fuel line for kinks. Replace the fuel filter if you still have problems. It's in the tank. Grab the old one with a bent coat hanger and pull it toward you. You often don't have to pull the whole assembly out of the tank to change the filter.
- 3). Change the spark plug if the engine won't start at all and there's clean, new fuel in the tank. Twist the boot off and unscrew the plug with the socket set. Discard a corroded, worn, or discolored plug. Try not to get any water in the engine while you have the hole exposed.
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