Try to do some testing before condemning the fuel pump. There might be an air leak in the inlet fuel system before the pump, or perhaps a clogged line/filter/tank pick up. Try a different fuel tank/hose. Look for leaks on the connector while pumping up the fuel line primer bulb. Remove/clean the fuel filter element if this engine still has one. Remove the fuel pump outlet hose from the carb, then pump the primer bulb….You should see a steady stream of fuel coming from the hose without having to prime the bulb excessively.
Generally speaking, you should not be able to blow backwards through the pump….In other words, remove the inlet hose to the pump, then remove the outlet hose from the carb….Try to blow back through the outlet hose, nothing should escape from the inlet nipple of the fuel pump.
With the engine running, try pumping the fuel bulb to keep it running….If you can keep the engine running by pumping the fuel bulb, chances are the pump is bad if none of the other issues I’ve mentioned are present. Are you trying to run the engine in a test tank or on the boat? I ask because sometimes, when running the engine in a tank, the tank might be down to low, the pump may not be powerful enough to “lift” the fuel that high. The only other thing I can think of is a bad fuel tank vent….This is easily checked by trying to run the engine with the gas cap loosened….
I’m not a fan of the cheap Chinese pump replacements, so consider the low purchase price a gamble…
Finally, I agree with Frank….Removing the powerhead is sometimes easier (provided none of the powerhead bolts are corroded/seized) than messing with that pesky shift rod connector that is buried inside the exhaust housing on newer engines. Removing the powerhead is an excellent opportunity to service the lower seal components, which are often overlooked….
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