Starting problems
 

I just recently purchased this 1992 Mariah MX20 5.8 HO King cobra . I started it at home before going to the water . Got to the water and the thing would not start . The only way it will run at all is if I hold the key in the run position , soon as I let go of the key it quits . I have not done much troubleshooting yet because I don't know where to start . Any help would be appreciated .

Re: Starting problems
 

I believe on the king cobra they had a safety switch built in that the drive had to be at least half way down from the trailering position to let the motor run.

Re: Starting problems
 

From what I've read after a Google search I don't think they did.

Re: Starting problems
 

Will it rev up with the key held on?

Re: Starting problems
 

Yes , It will rev up some , but runs rough . I believe I have chased it down to a bad fuel pump . I have a new electric one on order . Ordered it from amazon , it is eligible for prime shipping , but for some reason I will not receive it until Sep. 30 . I am a prime member . Hope this will correct my problem . Will update when I have it installed . Thanks for your interest .

Re: Starting problems
 

Not sure about king cobra but I had a similar problem with my 4.3 mercruiser. Some engines with electric fuel pumps have low oil pressure cut out switches that tend to go bad. The switch is bypassed with the key in the start position to allow the motor to start. So if new fuel pump doesn't cure your problem check your engine wiring diagram to see if yours is equipped with one. Good luck