Hi,

I inherited a pontoon boat with a 1988 Johnson 28 spl outboard. Looks
like the motor and boat have not been used for a few years.
Interestingly, the motor started on the first turn, but then sputtered
out. It continued to start and then die after running for about 20
second. I removed the plugs and they look OK (but I'll replace). I
tried pumping the fuel bulb when running to see if I could keep it
running in case the fuel pump may have a problem, but this did not
help. Also, the bulb is firm and not passing through when squeezed
suggesting the diaphram is OK.

I then played with the primer solenoid. The red switch (lever) was at
a 12 o'clock and in a locked position (seems to be seated in a grove).
I lifted the red switch and and turned it in the opposited direction
and gas seemed to rush in the carb. I then started the engine, it
seemed flodded, but I was able to get it started with the throttle
advanced in neutral. The motor then kept running with out stalling.
As long as I had the throttle advanced it ran, but as soon as I
reduced to idle the motor sputtered out.

I thought I might try a can of OMC tune-up spray to free up and
varnish and carbon. I'm a bit confused with the primer (choke?)
solenoid and not sure I have it in the right position. Since the boat
is at the lake, I cant look at the solenoid to confirm the
orientation, but seem to think it was in a horizontal position with
the front of the motor. When pushing in the key (choke) this solenoid
should open and let gas in to the carb to facilitate startng?

Does anyone have any thoughts or suggestions to help get this idling
properly? I tried adjusting the throttle cable at the motor which
advanced the motor RPM, but still would not idle without sputtering
out.

Any help and recommendations are appreciated.

Regards,

Bob