gw204 said:
No chock to worry about on that engine since it's fuel injected.
Since it runs fine at higher RPMs, I'm guessing it's not a fuel issues. That being said, I would go ahead and replace all 3 low pressure pumps if it's never been done.
I would also check the O2 sensor, TPS and oil pump adjustment rod. I have procedures at home I can send you. PM me your email address. The TPS check requires a special harness.
First, GW204, thanks for the input. I called Andy at SIM to ask his opinion, as I am reluctant to take the boat to a Yamaha shop and ask them to analyze it. That would be like giving the keys to the store away. Andy, like GW204, was under the impression that it is the LP pumps. He also suggested that it could be the VST was dirty. But, he did say that if the VST was dirty, I would be having problems all through the power range. The price for replacing the 3 LP pumps is not bad - certainly cheaper than most engine work. Just to review in case there are other opinions:
There is no evidence that the 3 pumps were ever replaced, as the previous owner's marina kept fairly good records;
Higher rpms runs fine;
Easy to start after it stalls out;
Smoke no worse than the day I bought it, and it ran fine;
Plugs probably have 40 hours or so, using Yamalube.
I do use Ring Free, so carbon is probably not an issue
Have not replaced the fuel filter, probably very inexpensive job to do.
Thanks for the opinions.