If you just did a service and changed your fuel filter they can be hard to start the first time after the filter change. It takes the system a while to prime back up. That wouldn't concern me unless its still hard to start next time you take it out.

You either have a bad Exhaust Coolant Temp (ECT) sensor or they forgot to hook it back up when changing the thermostat.

The rough running when warmed up and RPM (rev limit)reduction are both symptoms of a bad ECT sensor and subsequent active trouble code 14 on a MEFI 3 system (like yours). A code or scan tool could be used to confirm this. I can tell you how to make your own code tool for less than $1.00 if you are interested.

With a code tool and (factory) service manual this would be a simple diagnosis.

As far as the long crank time on initial start - new (empty) fuel/water seperator will cause this.

Dave

i had a very reputable dealer change the cap,rotor raw water pump and thermostat. after i changed the fuel filter it did take several tries to get the motor started but after that it was fine. i pulled a few plugs and they look good as new. light brown color. i bought a fuel pressure guage to hook to the shrader valve to check that. what should the pressure be at idle/WOT? if thats ok i'll replace the sensor dave spoke of. it's funny. the ticking, actually clanking in the exhaust right buy the solonide started when the motor died. i'll see if i can pull it apart enough to see if there's a restriction. that would choke the motor out if restricted. thanks for all the advice guy's! i really appricatet it. this is my first big boat and this motor is a littel overwhelming!...james

James,
Before you do anything else, at least check the connection at the ECT sensor.

Dave

where is this sensor? i just checked my fuel presssure(not running) and it looks like about 10-11 lbs. i'm going tofire it up tnd check the pressure then...james

32 psi at idle and 30 psi at 3000rpm on the hose. i'm going to hange the fuel filter and check again. these numbers are low from what i've read. could this be my problem?

Should look like this

thanks dave. it's plugged in. i changed the filter and pressure remained the same. no water in fuel. how can i test that sensor? thanks....james

Dave N
I'm interested!
How do you make a code tool for less than $1.00?
Thanks
Greg

found out what the ticking noise was in my exhaust. the quick and quiet valve screws came out and the valve was rattling around in the exhaust. could i ditch the quick and quite and put in a straight piece of pipe? would water come in from the outdrive? thanks...james