[Ben M.]

While I don't have marine experience I can definitely say that the one car I used fuel stabilizer in some years back has had fuel issues that required rebuilding the carburetor and replacing hoses. I only put 100% non-ethanol gas in everything that has a carburetor (3 vintage cars, 4 small engines) and I'll leave that gas in over the winter or 6+ months without firing it. As soon as I take it out and choke it, the engines fire right up and have no problem. I've been doing this for 6 years in an environment with some of the worst humidity in the south outside of the coastal areas. I would not use a stabilizer if I used non-ethanol gas.

While you have the carb open, put the float in a cup of gasoline and see if it actually floats. If it isn't, replace it. If it's anything but a nitrophyl float (black rubber material) replace it.