'92 Malibu Skier--trouble starting . . . but running great once started

[JAPB]

Just bought my first boat, so I’m a rookie.

My 92 Malibu Skier competition edition starts right up at the beginning of the day, but I have trouble starting it after I have it shut down even for a short period of time on the lake. I can always get it started, but it takes some time. Any suggestions? Thanks!

[4skinuts]

@JAPB You may have vapor lock issues. Are you using 100% gasoline?  Ethanol is known for causing vapor lock in boats of that era. 

[justgary]

Vapor lock would apply if you have an injected engine.

If you have a carb engine, it is more likely either a stuck choke or possibly leaking float valves spilling gas into the intake.  In that case, I would rebuild the carb.

[mxmark4]

Vapor lock can happen on carb engines too.  But a carb rebuild and measuring float heights wouldnt be a bad idea anyhow. 

[JAPB]

Thanks. I am using 92 octane premium gas which says no ethanol at the pump. It is a carb engine.

[Woodski]

When it does start, do you see black smoke from the exhaust?  That would indicate a rich condition and would be from internal fuel leakage so as noted, carb rebuild should help.  A long crank to get it started or simply waiting an extended amount of time to allow some cooling points to vapor lock symptoms.  Try putting a cool, wet towel/rag on the fuel pump to see if that helps, and when sitting open the doghouse (engine cover) to allow warm air to escape.