Saving Old Seagulls

Hello all I am new here and have a problem. I just bought a 40 plus seagull and after cleaning and setting the points, new plug, cleaned carb, cleaned fuel tank, I can only get it to start with starting fluid and then it dies 3 to 4 seconds later. I have fuel in the bowl of the carb but it just wont run. Any suggestions will be appreciated


Thanks,
James Banik

Becase it will start I'd concentrate on the carb, at least to begin with. Be absolutely sure the jet is clean and fitted with retaining screw in slot not round hole (Villiers carb assumed) and adjusted correctly.

You are following the correct starting procedure. Tickle the carb, fully close the choke and plenty of throttle.

Tell us more about it. what carb/ ignition system fitted? Tell us the serial number.

Yes its a Villiers carb and the serial # is FP1081K7. Repair work is halted for now, I broke the fuel line this morning. Where is the best place to order a new one?

So that has a sealed wipac ignition system? If it had been the Villiers one I'd have said inspect the coil and consider replacing the condenser.

I dont know where you'll get a fuel pipe from in your neck of the woods. In the UK John at SOS I expect.

Almost certainly plugged main jet, or bad fuel.

John can get most any part for you for this engine. They take a week or so to cross the pond, but I would rather support the efforts of someone who puts the effort into an incredible website like this.

Well I got it going today, the main jet was clogged. Bought a 40 plus long shaft and a silver century today for 80 dollars got the 40 plus running in about 30 minutes the silver century is missing several parts and is going to be a long term project.

Thanks for the help,
James Banik

Great news ..Im taking the rest of the month off for good behaviour..

Catigull