uncle k wrote:
Hi all,

I have an early '80's version 50 Merc/LS, on a lightweight 14' runabout ('64
Fabuglas). The engine runs perfectly - has never missed a beat - and makes
this little boat stand up and fly, right now! The other day, running at
about 1/2 throttle, it suddenly bogged down... not enough power to even get
on a plane.

It sounded like it was laboring. No miss, but a heavy, working hard kind of
drone. Toying with it, I found that the more throttle I gave it, the less
likely it was to pick up speed. When I stopped, it would idle, but barely,
then it would return to a normal idle speed/sound. Since I was close to
home, I nursed it back. When I would activate the choke, it would
temporarily begin to gain rpm, only to return to the droning sound and lack
of power.

Without taking anything apart, I visually inspected to see that the controls
were working, at the business end, which they were. I see no leaks along
the fuel line, or in the squeeze-bubble. Mix is good and tank was vented.
Electric choke works fine. All electrical connections are clean and tight.
It seems to point at carburetion, but I don't know what/where/why. I'm a
pretty good wrench, but have rarely touched the guts of an outboard.

Before I do anything drastic, I'd appreciate your best guesses as to what is
causing this, as I may be missing something pretty basic. TIA.

Unc

Sounds like the carbs are gunked up. They're pretty simple carbs, just
go carefully, get a manual and a rebuild kit. Look for tiny orifices
that can clog very easily, and use appropriate size wire to clean them
out.