2003 130 hp 2 stroke - won't start

[pb0nn3r02]

Hello, my fiancée family has a 2003 130 hp 2 stroke that's has had issues starting. In short, the engine seems to want to turn over, but cannot get there, almost as if it's short on gas. They checked the ball, which seems to always be soft, but they cannot get it to stay hard. Added issue, the engine only seems to start in a partially down position, but not all the way down. The fuel lines have been replaced, though they're still skeptical. Any ideas!?! They're considering trying an external gas tank.

Thanks in advance!

[DennisG01]

Fuel injected or carb?

Has the fuel primer bulb been replaced? Is it installed in the proper direction?

Multiple things come to mind, but need more info. Like, did this issue start after the fuel line replacement? How long has it been going on? Does it EVER start?

Clogged pick-up tube... clogged vent line and/or fitting (open gas cap to eliminate this variable...

If still no good after trying some things, yes, use a portable tank direct to the engine to eliminate everything on the boat side.

[99yam40]

starting in a partial down position, but not all the way down, sounds like a wire problem coming into the motor.
motor position changes the binding/bending or the wires.
easy way to tell if it is a spark problem and not fuel is check for spark when the motor will not start

[NC Pirate]

Old school and easy
mix some 50:1 oil and gas in a spray bottle and spray in carb throat while its spinning over.
If it fires up, you know you have spark and are lacking fuel