Idle Stabilizer Mercury 200

**Mako22** · 08-05-2016, 03:27 PM

Mercury Offshore 1997 200 HP Carbs

So I crank it up on the muffs. Idles at around 1500 to 1600 rpm.

Let it warm up a bit, then shut it off

Immediately start again and rpm is 800 to 900.

Is this the idle stabilizer playing games?

Water pressure is 5 psi, temp is 140.

PS what is a starting set for the idle when on the muffs: Is 800 to 900 OK or should I go a little higher before heading to the boat ramp to set the idle with engine in the water?

Thanks guys!

**eli** · 08-05-2016, 10:22 PM

on muffs 1000/1100 in water 700

**tlwjkw** · 08-06-2016, 07:16 AM

Originally Posted by Mako22

Mercury Offshore 1997 200 HP Carbs

So I crank it up on the muffs. Idles at around 1500 to 1600 rpm.

Thanks guys!

cable disconnected?... did ya "blip" (justa touch) tha throttle after warm up?..

wouldn't worry 'bout nothin' till ya set it under a load..... jmo

oh yeah, give tha stabilizer tha "float test".. no more question.

**Mako22** · 08-06-2016, 12:37 PM

Originally Posted by tlwjkw

oh yeah, give tha stabilizer tha "float test".. no more question.

Going out crabbing Tuesday, might put it in the pot for bait!

Thanks guys.

**Mako22** · 08-06-2016, 12:48 PM

As a novice outboard mechanic, I have been pondering the fact that idle drops from running on the muffs vs. having the boat in the water.

Likely due to the increased exhaust back pressure when the lower unit is submerged?

Those that know enlighten me.

Thanks again!

**tlwjkw** · 08-06-2016, 12:56 PM

"in gear!" under a load is when ya set tha idle timin' which determines speed/rpm to whatever makes both you and tha motor happy........ don't worry what tha book says.