it took me forever to get it started and then keep it running.  When I got it started it would run great until I throttled back to idle.  Then, I had to fight to get it started again.  I finally discovered that if I squeezed the bulb at the gas tank until it got firm again, I could get the boat started.  I've never owned a gasoline powered boat before, and this was my maiden voyage with her, so I am writing this with total ignorance as to what my problem might be.  That said, I have two questions about my 1990 Bass Tracker with 60 hp two-stroke engine.

First, when you squeeze the bulb on the gas line until it is firm, shouldn't it remain that way throughout the day?

Secondly, do gas tanks normally seep gasoline from around the hose attachment on the tank before the fuel hose is attached?

I've got a sneaking suspicion that I need to junk every piece of fuel related equipment below the motor, including the tanks, but I'll await the input of those in the know.

Once you get it running for the day, the bulb should stay pumped up.  I would start by replacing the primer bulb.  If that doesn't work, there may be a small leak in the fuel pump diaphragm.

I'd trash the fuel line and bulb for sure and replace it, not that expensive.  You might want to consider getting rid of those 17 year old metal tanks as well, who knows how well the fuel and tanks were taken care of during the off-season by the previous owner.  Not sure just what you mean by fuel seeping from the tank fitting.  

Thanks for the input guys.  I replaced the bulb today and was able to pressure it up.  I also installed an in-line fuel filter.    I gave serious thought to Cart7's comment about the 17 year old gas tanks.  I have decided to replace the tanks with a permanently installed 12 gal tank and install a fuel filler neck near the stern decking.  Also, the new tank will allow me to install a gas gauge in the console.  I will install it in place of the water pressure gauge, which is not working.  I figure the conversion will cost about $250, but everyone knows I'm stinkin rich, right?  

Always something to be done to a boat.  I haven't made any modifications to mine in a few weeks and I'm getting antsy.  

Always something to be done to a boat. I haven't made any modifications to mine in a few weeks and I'm getting antsy.

B.O.A.T.

Bring

Out

Another

Thousand

Before you replace the line and bulb try opening the preasure reliefe valve on the tank cap. the preasure needs to equalize in the gas tank.

Ballistik, thanks for the heads up.  Would you recommend that I run the boat with the fill cap set at a quarter-turn to the left so the pressure stays equalized, or is that a one time only thing that you mentioned.

Mike, there should be a small thumb screw vent in the center of the filler caps on the tanks.

Kelley

Triton said it. There should be a small valve on top of the fill cap to loosen up.

Sorry guys, no thumbs sgrews on my antique tanks.  Anyway, it's a moot point.  I'm replacing them with a permanent tank as soon as I can find one that fits under the deck.

Thanks for the education everyone.  

then if there are not relief valves then yes try turning the cap a 1/4 turn to allow air in the tank.

I'd replace anything that is leaking or looked old. Just don't tell my wife this. ;D

Here's an update guys.  I have installed a new permanent 12 gal tank complete with all new hoses, fittings, etc.  For the most part the problem is solved.  I still have trouble keeping the motor running when idling, but it always fires right up when it dies.

Mike, try setting the idle up some.  There should be an ilde adjusting screw on the linkage near the carbs.  I think it should idle at 600 to 800 rpms.  I am sure Cart can tell you exactly.

Kelley

Thanks Kelly.  I figured it was just a matter of adjusting the idle setting, but I haven't reached that point yet.  I ordered the Repair Manual for the Motor and it arrived late last week.  Remember, this is my first gas powered boat, so I'll have to read the manual to find out where the idle setting is.  If Cart want to chime in, its an 89 Johnson/Evinrude 60 hp.  

Always something to be done to a boat. I haven't made any modifications to mine in a few weeks and I'm getting antsy.

B.O.A.T.

Bring

Out

Another

Thousand

I hadn't seen it worded this way.  This is going to be a classic  good one Dlee lol!