Need tips on set up - 1989 Stratos

[BT1961]

I just bought a used 89 Stratos and this is my first boat. I could use a little help on set up as it seems to have a few issues. Bear with me as I am an old fighter aircraft mechanic.... not a watercraft guy by far!!!

1st problem - The GT150 fires up and revs fine in neutral, I put it in gear and when I accelerate the throttle, it boggs down. It does have new plugs. I haven't cheked the timing or anything else on this issue.. it does come up to WOT if you play with it enough and ease it up to cruising altitiude!!! Not quite as fast as an F-16!!! Any suggestions??? Thanks BT

[barrysbassworld]

I would first check you fuel supply. Is the bulb hard? Are you getting gas? Your motor will idle fine but, when you press on the gas it uses more fuel and suffers which causes the bogging. Check air vents on the tank as well.

Good Luck

[Lockjaw]

Was the boat sitting up when you bought it? If so it probably has gummed up carbs. I would get a can of seafoam, put in in the tank, and ride around on the lake for a little while.

Crossflows (the engine you have) need to have good oil and good gas. Mine did not run well at all with gas with ethanol in it.

Checking the bulb is also a good idea. Push in the key when it stumbles, and if it picks up, that means you have a fuel issue. Might be good to do a sync and linc too.

[TexasJT]

Have you resolved your issues? I have a 1988 Stratos 181 with GT150 and might be able to offer advice if you are still having problems. Just let me know what you're experiencing and what you've tried so far.