Identify loose rubber flap under engine 2002 196

[GJpearce]

I just took my boat out for the first time this year and I noticed some issues when I cruise at high speeds (about 40 mph or kph) with the RPM.s dropping and surging about 300 rpm every so often, I am planning on changing the fuel filter (any other advice about this problem appreciated). I went out to inspect the engine as the boat is on my backyard lift. I found about an inch of water beneath the center of the engine (keep in mind it is tilted upward) and I found a loose piece of black rubber measuring 3,75 by 19.5 inches with a placticized backing (which was shedding). Can anybody identify this part? Is it from the factory? Is it important? This boat is stationed on a lake in Florida and has about 500 hours total in 13 years.
Thank you

[NCH2oSki]

The black rubber piece is most likely from under the muffler/s. Pull up the section of floor behind the engine to access and re-install. If your muffler has a hole from rubbing on the hull this may also be the source of the water.

[JayG80]

I agree on the muffler as a probable source for the water. Drain and dry the bilge, pull the engine cover and the floor board behind it. Drop the boat down and run the engine it in your slip. Watch the packing and the muffler for the water. My 2002 had a pin hole in the muffler that I was able to see and patch.

As far as the engine surge, this may not be the problem but it is a place to start while you are changing the filter. Replace the short fuel line that is inside the FCC. It is about 2.5" long, the high pressure fuel pump dangles on it. When my internal fuel hose had a small crack, the engine required additional throttle, it got progressively worse. Cheap fix and now I inspect it at every filter change. 2 clamps and buy a foot of fuel line from the Auto Parts store or online when you buy the filter.

http://www.skidim.com/prodinfo.asp?number=RK045098
or http://www.nautiqueparts.com/interna...oseforfcc.aspx