| Weak tell‑tale or overheat alarm |
Inspect intake screen for blockage, confirm thermostat operation, check impeller condition and key. |
Water pump kit, thermostat, intake screen, housing gasket |
| Poor acceleration or power loss |
Check prop hub for slip, verify fresh fuel and open tank vent, inspect plugs and carb idle/jetting for fouling. |
Propeller, fuel filter, spark plugs, carburetor/jet kit |
| Hard starting or rough idle |
Confirm 50:1 premix, enrich/choke function, primer bulb firmness, and plug gap/condition. |
Spark plugs, fuel filter, choke/primer parts, carb gaskets |
| Excessive smoke (2‑stroke) |
Verify correct oil ratio, avoid prolonged cold‑idle, and confirm plugs aren’t oil‑fouled. |
Spark plugs, fuel/oil mix, carburetor cleaning items |
| Gearcase noise or metal in oil |
Drain and inspect gear oil, check prop shaft and seals for fishing line damage, verify shift cable adjustment. |
Lower unit seal kit, bearings, gear oil, prop shaft hardware |