ODay23 -Using "Instant Start" with Outboard ?

[Sea Drifter]

I have a 2 cycle Mercury 7.5 Electric Start outboard in use since 1984. Sometimes, late in the season, it gets a little hard to start. If I crank twice (about 5 sec) and it still hasn't started, is it "ok" to squirt a little (1/2 sec) "Instant Start" into the air intake to start it up? I assume the (non-starting cranking) is lubricating the pistons..etc…. with the oil mixed with the gas. This would be done only a few times during the season.

Any advice would be appreciated! Thanks.

 

[kloudie1]

Not a problem. That little bit of starting fluid wont hurt the engine.

 

[Sea Drifter]

Not a problem. That little bit of starting fluid wont hurt the engine.

Thanks...that is a relief to know. I have had a response on another site to NEVER use the spray in a 2 cycle engine,...??…. but the "pre-cranking" would appear (to me) to give adequate lubrication!

 

[jviss]

I would try to find the root cause. Carb issue, primer, etc.?

 

[Timm R Oday25]

They make starting fluid with lubricating oil in it . I had the exact same outboard for many years . I would replace the quick disconnect fitting first. Mine developed an airleak after sitting

 

[jviss]

I would replace the quick disconnect fitting first. Mine developed an airleak after sitting

You can often replace the O-ring in those quick disconnects.

 

[Sea Drifter]

Thanks for the good insight. The spray with lubricatiion sounds best, and I'll track it down rather than using the stuf from the local hardware store bought for my lawnmower!!