Thread: Tohatsu Starting Slow

Originally Posted by Sky Pilot

I have a 2016 9.8 Tohatsu 4 stroke that is getting difficult to start. The only way it will start is to leave the throttle completely off and start it using the choke. It will finally start barely running and in few minutes I'll be able to increase the throttle to raise the RPMs. Once it "warms up" it is no problem the rest of the day. I've put new plugs in, so I don't think that is an issue. Does anyone have any suggestions to try?

Mine does the same thing. They are a cold running engine. You could do what I do is to remove the fuel line at the end of the day and reconnect when your ready to fish again. It seems to help a little. Make sure you warm the motor before putting in gear.

What I know about mechanics would fit in a thimble, and is likely wrong, but that sounds like what the hot rodders of old described as "plugs too hot."

Have you tried running stabil or seafoam through it? It's just personal preference as to which one is better. I personally always put the marine stabil in my fuel even though I buy non ethanol gas, I started doing this after a ruined trip due to a hard starting motor.

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It sounds like the idle circuit has leaned out. The trade off of having a motor that sips fuel is that the fuel circuits are very small and more prone to blockage by particulate or buildup. The idle and accelerator circuits are the most frequent culprits of problems with 4 stroke engine carbs. Since I'm not a fan of snake oil fuel additives, I would recommend having the carb cleaned.

Water in gas tank?? That was my problem.

Thanks for your comments. When I replaced the plugs, I went with the exact same plug that was in there originally, so that shouldn't be an issue. I have been using non-ethanol and that also shouldn't be an issue. Having said that, I have used regular gas in the past and some clogging may have already taken place. I've never used an additive, but have been considering doing so. Is cleaning the carburetors a professional job or can shade tree mechanic, meaning me, do this? Sparkie51, do you disconnect the fuel and let the motor use the gas that's left or do you just disconnect before leaving?

Does water in the gas require cleaning the carbs or dumping out the gas and putting fresh gas in the tank? Would an additive help with water in the tank?

My advice is PM Sliderman and take it to him and let him straighten it out for you.