IMG_3218

Once the brakes seemed to be OK it was time to run the engine and check it out. That didn't go well. Started well, warmed up with a bit of choke at the beginning. Smoothed out nicely and idled properly after it was all warmed up. Then I added throttle slowly and at about 3950 RPM the engine sputtered and RPM dropped to about 3000 RPM and returned to 3950 and dropped to 3000. More throttle made it worse. Lots of discussion on the forums led to the possibility of the carb float bowl gaskets drying out and leaking. They'd be OK till the pressure came on at which time they'd start to leak resulting in starvation of the engine till the pressure came off. Removed the drip trays to gain access and checked the float bowls and, sure enough, plenty of evidence of leakage: blue staining and some residual fuel. This is the starboard side.