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Hello and congratulations on the purchase. During the purchase did the previous owner ever mention doing a carburator cleaning or rebuild work? Shleprock do you now how fresh the fuel is can you ask the previous owner when he filled last and which type of fuel was he using, Ethanol (E10) or Rec-90 (Non-Ethanol). Ethanol fuel (E10) causes many problems and if left unused with no additive...bad.

From what I researched your motor is a 4 cylinder and carburated. Your description of the sputter and low idle/stall issue may be fuel related. If your handy and you don't mind DIY projects acquire a Mercury shop manual for your motor and familiarize your self with the workings of your motor and it's fuel delivery. It may be as simple as a filter change (remote location or engine mounted). If the Carb float-bowl drain srcrews are accessible you may be able to check for contaminated fuel (presence of water or debris).

The 115 Merc Saltwater series appear to have a good following amongst their owners, so it appears your in good company as far as boat forum inquiries go.

You got yourself a nice boat Shleprock the price is excellent. I paid a bit more for my 1996 Dauntless 15 some short years ago but, the previous owner had done some major upgrades throughout 2007 including a newly rigged 2007 Yamaha 90 2 Stroke with factory warranty and transferable along with extendible to a second owner. I couldn't resist...I purchased my Dauntless around August/September of 2008 if I recall.

Happy boating to you and look into the bad fuel possibility.

Angel M.