Seeking an understanding of engine start behavior

[Palm Bay Chuck]

I just purchased a Challenger 1800 and it works well. The previous owner told me that sometimes, after sitting for an extended period, he has to use starting fluid (ether) to get the engine started. I haven't had to do that as of yet. Anyway, why would this be? Do the carb floats empty after an extended period of not running? Why would the starting fluid help? I understand that the highly flammable starting fluid would ignite almost instantly, but why would this get the engine to start and stay started? Does the firing engine suck gas into the carbs and sort of 'prime the pumps' so to say? I was reading someone else's post that said that using starting fluid should NEVER be required.

I'm just asking.....

Thanks!

 

[Dr Honda]

Realistically... if things are working... you should NEVER need starting fluid. AND... since it's very dry... it's VERY hard on a 2-stroke. The only time where I say it's "ok" to use it... is if an engine has been siting, and you don't want to kill the battery. Like, when you bring it out of storage from the winter. But even then... a strong battery, and a properly running engine shouldn't need it.


With that said... the Merc engines are sensitive to not having fresh air. If I'm running my boat, and then sit... it will not restart without running the bilge fan for a minute or two. So... the last owner may have not have been venting correctly. Then... opening the deck lid, and giving it a shot of start fluid would get it to go.

If you aren't having an issue... then dont' worry, and just assume that the last owner didn't know better.


To answer your q's in order:


1) PO was an idiot.

2) They shouldn't. The fuel can evaporate, but it would take months. If they are draining, it could be from the "Choke" system. But in that case, the engine would be flooded.

3) Yes... it's highly flammable, and can (sometimes) get a flooded, or very dry engine to fire. But, no... it wouldn't stay running, unless the problem clears. (like clearing a flooded engine)

4) Yes... the mechanical pump really only works are running speed.