Honda 2.3 starting problems

[Rogersails]

Hello
I have the ubiquitous Honda 2.3 air cooled outboard and it is very unreliable
It is barely run in and is using new fuel
The problem is hot starting. It usually starts well when cold (cold being approx 30 degrees C at present). But recently will not restart after a short run. I’m very careful not to flood it, never use choke.
Any suggestions, please?

[Shanachie]

I've owned a 2.3 for about six years.


The usual trouble is the tiny fuel jets. They are easily clogged, especially when you use ethanol gas.


The solution many owners, including me, recommend is to use non-ethanol gas and run the engine dry at the end of each day by shutting off the fuel line.


Also, fresh gas is a good idea, although not a major issue because the tank is so small. It doesn't take much to run it down.


I've had no problems with my engine since I started doing this about fouyr years ago.

[GordMay]

If the engine is flooded [due to stuck float or needle valve, etc*], try cranking it, with the throttle WIDE OPEN, and it may start. Be prepared to immediately reduce throttle to idle, if it starts.

* Another cause, of hot re-start problems, is leaking spark plugs, causing flooding. It happens when the carburettor heats up, and the plugs and block are dissimilar metals, and expand/contract at different rates.