Help me please (etec-40 idle prob)

memo · 31 May 2008, 14:58

Hi guys,
A few days ago, when i was returning from a very long trip i ran out of petrol, since then my idle was a bit lumpy and today she refused to ignite several times and even stalled on idle. At higher rpms the problem is not noticable but below 1000 it kills everything.

I tried to go fast for a while thinking there should be a dirt in the system and it may spit it out but no chance as you can imagine...

I called a local marine service for an appointment on monday but i would really appreciate your thoughts before service. (a good technician but not an authorized evinrude service)

Help me please!
Regards,
Memo

seahorse · 31 May 2008, 15:12

Most of the time a poor idle on an E-TEC is because of sparkplugs being worn - too large a gap.

Pull one plug at a time and check them and install new or regap to about .028".

There is an E-TEC owners group that has a lot of reference material and a good mix of owners, techs, and other folks eager to help out.

www.etecownersgroup.com

memo · 31 May 2008, 18:14

I just remembered, i also changed my engine oil from Yamlube to XD-30 prior to these problems. Seems like a far shot but do you think it my be related as well?

GED · 31 May 2008, 21:07

running out of petrol you may have pulled some water into your filters/fuelsystem

lucky ribster · 31 May 2008, 21:19

your etec maybe set to run xd 100 ?

plus i think the plugs have to be at the right angle ?

may be worth a try

spartacus · 01 June 2008, 16:27

I assume there will be a fuel filter on the engine. If you've ran out of fuel - you'll probably pulled through some debris. Remove and clean filter, refill with fresh fuel and try again.

I assume fuel tank is vented too?

memo · 01 June 2008, 16:36

Fuel tank is the standart evinrude duratec plastic fuel tank. I suppose it has a ventialtion... I will clean the filter tomorrow and if i can schedule a service time will take the boat to the shop. In the mean time all ideas are welcome!

thanks fellas

memo · 03 June 2008, 17:34

The problem was found to be the spark plugs.. After putting new ones and cleaning the error codes from ecu, she is running perfect! thank you guys