Engine cutting out
 

Hi all - currently running with a mercruiser 4.3 with a slight issue. After approx 30-45 mins the engine loses all power without warning. It happened twice the other day. First time the engine popped and banged and then cut out. Would not restart. Got a tow into a marina and tried starting it approx 1hr later and started fine. Made our way back home and same thing again except no noises, just cut out. We used outboard motor to continue journey and again, approx 30 mins later started the engine again and it was fine.

Does anyone have any experience of what this might be or come across it before?

Thanks!

Re: Engine cutting out
 

It sounds like a fuel supply issue and possibly due to the fuel becoming overheated. That overheating vaporizes the fuel then leads to vapor-lock which results in fuel starvation. A quick fix is usually to pour some cold water over your fuel pump and fuel line with the engine shut off. A long term solution is to provide better air movement and/or figure out where the fuel line isn't protected from the engine heat and figure out either how to protect the line or re-route it slightly.

Re: Engine cutting out
 

You got fuel or spark problem. Over the years had electronic ignition problems that once warm they would start to break down...sit cool off then run till warm and issue show up again.

Re: Engine cutting out
 

Thank you both for your replies. I'll look into both the issues you've raised and hopefully get to the bottom of it

Re: Engine cutting out
 

AMCkelvie
Did you find a resolution to this issue?
I am having the same problem in my Z272 Barchetta. Runs great, then just dies, get towed in. The starts back up fine. Rubs great, the dies and takes 15 min or so sit. Then starts up again.
Thanks

Re: Engine cutting out
 

Just another suggestion. Make sure your vent is not clogged on the fuel tank
If Air cannot get it, fuel can not get out. As a test try driving with the fuel cap loose when it start to happen again. Obviously NOT with a full tank of gas.

Check if there is a fuel filter then change it.

If it is an electrical issue. Might consider changing to Pertronix. I did that on my 74 Corvette and works perfectly. No more points and condenser.

Good luck and post what you found and how you fixed it please.

Re: Engine cutting out
 

Ken,
Thank you for the suggestion and advice. We will give those ideas a try and let you all know if we find a resolution. Have tried lots of strategies so far to no avail.
Very frustrating,’so very open to the advice, and input on what has worked for others.
Thanks again
High plains drifter