Now that our new Honwave T40 is almost ready. I needed to pull my Mercury 20 hp 4 stroke out of the shed and do what was needed to get it running. This engine was washed out in fresh water and generally rinsed down before putting in in the shed on its stand. Nothing else was done. There it has stood for many years and has not been started for al least 4 years. I was expecting to have to do somthing.
I got it out, connected the water, connected some petrol I have had in a fuel tank for about 6 months and the engine fired up after the fifth pull. It ran for a couple of seconds then stopped. I squeezed the primer bulb about 3 times pulled it again with full choke and it started and continued to run. Put in the choke and it continued to run. I took some engine temps to see is it was getting hot and it seemed very cool.
I have now lifted the heavy beast onto the Honwave and weather and time permitting might have its maiden this year.
I read a lot on here about petrol and issues old petrol can cause and I am aware this can happen. It did not however seem to be the case here. Video below of it running at idle. It ran well much faster also.
I got out all my tools ready to do some work and the trusty carb cleaner but did not need them. I even ordered a new impeller and thermostat. Those will keep until I might need them.
