Page 1 of 1
Hard Starting
Posted: Thu Dec 18, 2025 9:12 am
by Bdunlap60
Hello,
I am new to this forum. I recently purchases a 2006 Cobalt 232 bowrider.
Used it only a few times this year as we purchased it late in the season.
My question is when I take it to the marina for fuel and fill it up, it does not want to start.
It cranks but will not start. I was able to release the throttle and increase the rpm's and it finally started.
For reference, when I go to start it at out boat slip after it has been sitting for a week, it starts right up.
Any ideas on why this may be happening ?
Thank you !
Re: Hard Starting
Posted: Thu Dec 18, 2025 4:39 pm
by jhnmdahl
So it starts any time other than when you add new fuel? That's a new one to me. I wonder if adding fuel mixes the tank up and there's bad fuel or something like water-soaked ethanol in there that gets mixed in but otherwise wouldn't be drawn into the engine? Water-soaked ethanol, for example, can sink to the bottom and doesn't burn well. I'd avoid ethanol in your fuel, add Stabil or something similar, and try to get a fresh tank of gas in there soon:
https://a.co/d/7nAreZN.
Re: Hard Starting
Posted: Thu Dec 18, 2025 11:56 pm
by bruceb58
What model engine? Describe your starting procedure.
Re: Hard Starting
Posted: Fri Dec 19, 2025 8:28 am
by Bdunlap60
The engine is a Volvo Penta 5.7L engine fuel injected.
After fueling at the marina, I turn on the blower. After the blower has been turned on for about 5 minutes I crank the engine over.
As mentioned previously I have no problem starting the boat after it has been sitting for about a week.
I'm wondering if when I refuel it is stirring up something in the gas tank ?
Note: I did replace the fuel filter to see if that would help but it did not change anything.
Also, once the boat is running and I get it out on the water it runs fine.
Re: Hard Starting
Posted: Fri Dec 19, 2025 11:28 am
by bruceb58
Almost sounds like a vapor lock issue when the engine sits a little bit warm. Does it happen even if you aren't getting fuel if you let it sit not running for the same amount of time?
Do you always add a little throttle when you try to start?
I would probably test the fuel pump pressures to see if they are within spec.
I do not think it has anything to do with stirring up fuel in the tank. You still have a lot of fuel between the injectors and the fuel tank pick up to start with that is not disturbed.
Re: Hard Starting
Posted: Fri Dec 19, 2025 12:03 pm
by AsLan7
.
So glad you found us bd60….
That is perplexing. Do you have a tech nearby that can scan the codes? That can help from going down rabbit holes.
Keep us posted.
And welcome aboard mate.
.
Re: Hard Starting
Posted: Fri Dec 19, 2025 3:59 pm
by Bdunlap60
So glad I found this forum and thank you all for replying back.
I have a mechanic friend and I will show him all your replies.
Thank you !