2003 Johnson 150 HP won't idle for long.

[squid1]

Newly purchased 2003 Aquasport 205 Osprey, motor was winterized and I am now putting it in operation. The fuel tank was drained but oil tank remained full. It took a while to finally get fuel to the motor. Seems to idle a little rough and continues to stall.  I can keep it running by squeezing the primer bulb but after a short time, the low oil buzzer goes off. As I said, the tank is full. I can't seem to find the vent for the fuel tank. What did I miss? I have had boats my entire life but have been Merc's. Am new to Johnsons. Any recommendations? Oh, and the boat was serviced last year but has not been run until I just purchased it.

[boatnamesue]

Being a FL native, I'm not familiar w/wintering motors, but I understand the purpose.  With that said, wasn't the oil supposed to be drained as a part of the wintering procedure?  I wud think so, since oil can freeze.  Very likely the oil alarm issue is related to this.  Need to determine why the alarm is being triggered by testing oil level sensors. 

The fuel issue and oil issue do not sound related.  If the motor runs while squeezing primer and dies when you don't, this sounds like the fuel pump is shot.  If fuel is not being delivered appropriately then the idle will be compromised.  And you can't adjust the idle until you've solved the fuel delivery issue. 

Not sure why/how you believe the fuel vent is related.  If you think fuel tank is not ventilated, open fuel cap.  If it isn't venting, the tank will be pressurized and you'll hear this as you open the cap.   

[squid1]

Thanks Jason, I just recently purchased the boat and I was told that the boat was serviced a while ago and the fuel tank was emptied and since the engine smoked ALOT upon finally getting it to start I assumed it was winterized and hadn't been run. The engine would stall when bulb ran out of full and when I would pump it is when the buzzer would go off. I am totally unfamiliar with Johnsons since I have only own old OMC and merc's. There appears to be differences.

[boatnamesue]

Regardless of specific manufacturer motor, if you're a DIY'er then I highly recommend you get a model/year specific service manual.  If you're unsure of how long oil has been idle in the oil system, I'd be tearing it down to ensure it clean and feed hose is clear.  Then perform tests on oil alarm system components.   

I can't make sense why you're getting a low oil alarm when squeezing primer cause the motor is starved of fuel.  I'm not familiar w/Johnson's, but I just can't see how they're related.  Primer bulb going flat is likely due to an obstruction behind the bulb (btwn tank and bulb), that's assuming fuel pump is functional. 

[Capt. Bob]

When you say "low oil" alarm, what is the alarm period?
Continuous, beep, beep, beep or beep...…………………….beep...……………………...beep?