7.4 cuts out in rough waters

[89formula242]

1989 7.4 had a complete tune-up at start of the season; ran great first couple of weekends. Started noticing that the engine would cut out for a split second every so often. This past weekend, while in some rough waters, the problem became worse. it seemed like every time we crested on a large wake, the motor would cut out. Not as much of a problem when we traveled calmer water. Any suggestions on where to start looking?

 

[Docksidemarineservices]

First check the large engine harness plug, don't disconnect it, wiggle it to see if you can duplicate the problem. Then the plug on the ignition amplifier, this one may have corrosion. Start wiggling all the wires on the engine including the coil wire to the distributor cap.

Also wiggle the ignition key switch at the dash and the lanyard switch if it has one.

 

[89formula242]

Thanks for the input. Any thoughts about the carburetor being the problem? It almost seems as if the motor is being fuel deprived as the boat rocks up and down.

 

[chiefalen]

maybe the bowl in the carb is full of water?

 

[Docksidemarineservices]

Is it cutting out as you said or does it miss. Do the gauges jump on the dash when this happens? Does it bog down when you go full throttle?