Boat Won't Start? Common Outboard Problems in Vero Beach Saltwater
Most 'won't start' calls on the Treasure Coast trace to one of five things. Run through this list before you book a service call — you might save yourself a trip.
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The five-item triage
1. Lanyard / kill switch
Sounds obvious. Most common cause of 'dead' calls.
2. Battery voltage under load
If it cranks slow or clicks, you have battery or cable corrosion.
3. Fuel — when did you last buy it?
Ethanol pump gas phase-separates in 30-60 days in Florida humidity. Old fuel = won't start, runs rough.
4. Primer bulb
Should pump up firm. Soft = air in line. Won't firm up = check valve failed.
5. Spark plugs
If they were due for a 100-hour change 200 hours ago, that's your answer.
FAQs
Do you do dockside diagnostics?
We do dockside calls within the Vero Beach/Sebastian/Ft. Pierce area for triage and minor work. Bigger jobs come back to the shop.
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Monthly turnkey care for $149* — we run your batteries, flush, check anodes, and remind you what's due. Members save 10% on all repair work.
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