|
My
tender’s carbureted outboard is constantly flooding. What could be
wrong? W.N., via e-mail
There
are two possible causes. The first is a malfunctioning float. Unless you
are a skilled mechanic, either call in an outboard mechanic or buy a new
carburetor. A mechanic will disassemble the carburetor, replace the inlet
needle valve and valve seat, then adjust the float position.
The
other possible cause is excessive fuel-pump pressure that is overpowering
the float. Since most mechanical fuel pumps cannot be adjusted, if that
is the problem, you’ll have to buy a new fuel pump.
While
my older stainless steel fittings are virtually corrosion-free, they have
lost some of their original luster. Using 3M pads of varying grades with
a wide variety of polishes has not done the trick. Any suggestions?
V.T., via e-mail
It’s
difficult to get anywhere hand-buffing old hardware that has been subjected
to years of saltwater exposure. Try using a cotton polishing wheel attached
to a power drill along with your cleaning/polishing products. Apply steady
pressure, and keep reapplying the product each time it is used up. If
this gets you nowhere, try using jeweler’s rouge, available at most
jewelry stores, and remember to use safety glasses, as the residue from
the cleaning products can be harmful to your eyes.
Once
you’ve got the shine back, apply a metal polish—Star brite’s
chrome and stainless polish comes to mind—to keep it looking that
way. You might also want to use a metal wax to protect your fittings.
However, repeated applications will be necessary, as salt water will remove
the protective coating.
Need
help with a maintenance problem? Write to Maintenance Q & A, Power
& Motoryacht, 260 Madison Ave., 8th Fl., New York, NY 10016. Fax:
(917) 256-2282. e-mail: ken_kreisler@primediamags.com.
No phone calls, please.
Next
page > PMY Tries... > Page
1, 2, 3
|