could this happen?

[Tom7227]

Last night we were out and the motor quit.  The gas gauge showed a little less than a quarter tank and has always been accurate in the past.

Put three gallons in and it still wouldn't start.  Squeezed the bulb three times and it started.  But gas had leaked out onto my hand when I squeezed.  Not a lot, enough to dampen my hand.

Could the bulb have let in air or something and broke the prime in the gas line?

Thanks for your time.

Tom

[LPS]

Yup the bulb has cracks in it and is leaking.  They used to last forever.  Now I pay extra for what is supposed to be a good one and they still only last 3 years.  Same with the lines. 

[HD]

Oh yeah... I've had to replace several bulbs in the past. They suck air and make a motor run like crap.

[LPS]

I wonder if maybe it is worth it and get the Merc, Johnson etc ones???  My new Merc doesn't even have a bulb.  Just the line.

[Tom7227]

When I go to replace it will the gas from the tank run out?  There is something near and up the line that looks like a filter or something.  No idea what it really is.  PITA to do this with the boat in the water but it is a 23 foot pontoon.

[LPS]

I would think that with the cracks in the bulb that it has lost its prime.  May drip some gas in the line but no stream of gas from the tank. 

[HD]

Can you unplug it from the tank before you replace the bulb?

[Gunner55]

Reading up on this 1 time(online) I read where a marine mechanic said this is common problem & he recommended using Yamaha gas lines. Theirs are different from other manufacturer's & last longer, is what he said.

[Tom7227]

I bought a new bulb today but now I have another question  since it has no directions.    Does the old one just sort of unplug and the new one plugs back in?  The boat is in the water and it is going to take some serious gymnastics to get to the setup and so I'd like to have an idea on what to expect.

Again, thanks for your time.

Tom

[mike89]

usually they are clamped on with metal clamps..  unless they have changed the way it's done..

[LPS]

They are directional too.  You have to make sure the arrow that is on there is pointing in the right direction.  As in towards the boat.  Use some little stainless hose clamps.  Then wrap them up in electrical tape so they aren't sharp.