LakeCumberlandBoaters.com

Empty gas tank.
Fix: Calibrating Your Fuel Gauge

Gas tank air vent not open.
Fix: Inspect the Boat Before Attempting to Start http://www.boatingmag.com/boat-inspection-checklist


Fuel lines kinked or severely pinched.
Fix: Choose the Right Hoses for Your Boat


Water or dirt in fuel system.
Fix: Installing a Fuel/Water Separator

Clogged fuel filter or screens.
Fix: Select the Proper Fuel Filter

Motor not being choked to start.
Fix: Check the Choke

Engine not primed - pump primer system.
Fix: Important Fuel System Checks

Carburetor adjustments too lean (not allowing enough fuel to start engine).
Fix: Servicing a Carburetor

Timing and synchronizing out of adjustment.
Fix: Check the Ignition System

Manual choke linkage bent - auto choke out of adjustment.
Fix: Check the Choke

Spark plugs improperly gapped, dirty or broken.
Fix: Properly Installing Spark Plugs

Fuel tank primer inoperative (pressurized system).
Fix: Fuel System Service Tips http://www.boatingmag.com/blogs/diy/fue ... rvice-tips

Ignition points improperly gapped, burned or dirty.
Fix: Check the Ignition System http://www.boatingmag.com/maintenance/t ... r?page=0,8

Loose, broken wire or frayed insulation in electrical system.
Fix: Electrical Repairs Checklist http://www.boatingmag.com/how-to/troubl ... -checklist

Reed valves not seating or stuck shut.
Fix: Inspect the Boat Before Attempting to Start http://www.boatingmag.com/boat-inspection-checklist

Weak coil or condenser.
Fix: Check the Ignition System http://www.boatingmag.com/maintenance/t ... r?page=0,8

Cracked distributor cap or rotor or shorted rotor.
Fix: Check the Ignition System http://www.boatingmag.com/maintenance/t ... r?page=0,8

Loose fuel connector.
Fix: Check the Fuel Lines http://www.boatingmag.com/boat-doctor-0

Poor engine or ignition ground.
Fix: Check the Ignition System http://www.boatingmag.com/maintenance/t ... r?page=0,8

Faulty ignition or safety switch.
Fix: Check the Ignition System I think this one should be further up the list with out of gas as it is VERY common. Just last year (I think it was) I had a wire come loose on my ignition switch and my boat would not start. Got lucky and Marine assist pulled me away from the shore where I could anchor and then we found the issue

Slow cranking speed.
Fix: Determine What Engine Problems are Really Serious http://www.boatingmag.com/maintenance/t ... d-my-motor

Low voltage to ignition, when cranking.
Fix: Check the Ignition System

Low compression.
Fix: Check Compression http://www.boatingmag.com/maintenance/t ... tic-checks

Safety lanyard/kill switch disconnected. This should be up there with the ignition switch etc.
Fix: Install & Check the Kill Switch

Dead battery.
Fix: Choose the Proper Marine Battery http://www.boatingmag.com/gear/marine%2 ... ne-battery