new fuel tank for 1979 20' SS

[ztagator]

I'm having trouble with my 175hp ocean pro cutting out after about 5 minutes of idle. I replaced ball and new plugs but it still goes down to 2 cylinders and then it cuts out. I am considering replacing the original 50 gallon fuel tank with a new tank and some new guages, (mine havn't worked for a year now). Any advice on this project would help!! Aluminum or plastic? What to expect? Which guages? Thanks Captains!!

[76Red18]

I used Teleflex Amega series gauges. You should also try to run the motor on a portable tank with a new fuel line. If it runs fine then the problem is in the existing tank or line. If it has the same problem then the problem lies within the motor. Unless you suspect your tank is leaking, I would hold off on tank replacment because your motor problem could be electrical. What year motor? Is it warmed up when it shuts down? How do you know it drops to 2 cylinders? Does it shut off right when you shift it into gear? Try that and get back to us with some more info.

[ztagator]

it warms up first, then quits. I had it running with the muffs on for about 20 minutes, no problem. Then i drop it in the water and it runs for about 5 minutes, then quits. Then it is hard to start. I can tell when it is going to stall, it sounds different. it is a 1999 175hp evinrude ocean-pro. Thank You.

[76Red18]

If its the same as my 99 150, there should be a shift switch on your shift linkage on the starboard side of the motor about at the same level as where the motor cowling seal is. The wires are a solid black and a black with yellow tracer. You will need to remove the plastic cover on the top rear of the motor to un plug the wires. The switch cuts fire to half of the cylinders for a split second when shifting. It lessens the strain in the gear case when shifting. Un plug the switch and try it. You shouldn't shift the motor while it's unpluged though. That little switch caused me all kinds of headaches. Cost was around $80 .

[ztagator]

could it be the water pump?