How to gain access to a Force 5 HP flame arrestor?

[DreamBoater]

Greetings: I have just acquired a Force 5 HP outboard motor which does not start. It has not been used for 2 yrs. No info came with it; so I don't know what model yr it is. I am mechanically inclined, with tools. Marine motors & terminology are new to me. I have ordered a service manual for the motor. I have been learning motor terms & technology by reading posts in this forum. 1 of the suggestions is to check the flame arrestor. I wonder if someone would be kind enough to outline in detail how to gain access to the flame arrestor & subsequently to remove it. I was able to remove the motor cover, but the spring-loaded rope keeps pulling the cover back to the motor housing. How should the rope be separated from the T-handle or from the motor cover? Thanks in advance.

 

[Jerryjerry05]

No flame arrestor on outboards.Some carbs have a cover,that might be considered a flame arrestor.
(t handle will come apart)The pull cord can be pulled and the cover removed and place a pair of visegrips on the rope.Then undo the handle and remove the cover to work on it.Male sure you tie a knot in it so it won't recoil into the housing.
If it won't start:do a compression/spark test(use a good tester).Drop the float bowl and see how much gunk is in there.Then clean as needed.The main jet also has the low speed jet in it(most models). Post your results.J