Diagnosing Outboard Idling Problems

An outboard motor that won’t idle properly can be a real headache, especially when mooring with an engine that stalls every time you bump it into neutral. 

The good news is that the outboard actually runs, so the problem shouldn’t be hard to fix, it's just a matter of finding out what’s stopping the motor from idling as it should. Watch the video above or read on below to learn how to identify and fix problems with an outboard that won’t idle properly. 

Outboard Stalls When Idling

For an outboard that stalls while on idle, go through the following checklist to troubleshoot the problem:

Check the Carburetor

If your outboard stalls whenever you drop it into idle, the problem usually lies with the carburetor. It might be something as simple as the carburetor idling screw needing a small adjustment, so check that first and adjust it if needed. 

Check the Fuel Injection 

If your outboard has fuel injection instead of a carburetor, try cleaning the idle air control (IAC) valve. This valve regulates airflow into the engine, so make sure it isn’t clogged with dirt and air can pass through it freely. If it is clogged, clean or replace the IAC valve.

Check the Fuel and Air Filters 

Inspect the fuel filters and the air filter too if your outboard has one. One of the first signs that the powerhead isn’t getting enough air or fuel is when the motor stalls, particularly when idling. Clean or replace the filters, and also drain any water from the fuel/water separator if you have one.

Check the Fuel System

Inspect all the fuel lines for any kinks or leaks that might be restricting fuel flow to the motor. Also, make sure all fuel vents are open. A closed vent can create negative pressure within the fuel system, restricting the fuel flow.

Fuel breaks down over time and goes bad. Fresh fuel should have that sweetish gasoline smell, whereas stale fuel has a sour turpentine-like aroma. Sniff the fuel tank, and replace the old fuel with a fresh batch if it smells stale. Don’t forget to treat the new fuel with fuel stabilizer to keep it fresh for as long as possible.

Check the Spark Plugs

Remove the spark plugs and check that they’re the correct ones for your outboard. Also, check that their gaps are set correctly and the electrodes are in good condition. Clean and reinstall the spark plugs, or go ahead and replace them with a new set since they’re so inexpensive. Make sure the spark plug cables are in good condition and are firmly seated on the plugs.

NOTE: Old spark plugs covered in either carbon or oil indicate severe problems with the motor, such as low engine compression or a leaking head gasket. 

Outboard Runs Poorly When Idling

The checklist for an outboard that remains running poorly at idle is the same as for when it stalls while idling. However, there's one more thing you can do to troubleshoot an outboard that runs poorly at idle:

Clean the Carburetor 

Over time, the inside of a carburetor gets coated in deposits left over by the fuel. This coating is similar to a sticky varnish, and it can easily block the carb’s jets. 

Dismantle the carburetor and thoroughly clean it, or replace the jets to improve the motor’s performance while idling.

Hopefully these inspections help you identify the problem preventing your outboard from idling properly. And if the problem with your outboard is that it just won’t start, we’ve got that covered too! Watch the video below to see how to diagnose outboard engine starting problems.