I have a '97 Maxum SC 2300 which had been running perfectly until we imprudently went into a narrow channel and got stuck in shallow, algae bottom water. I raised the outdrive and slowly pulled out although the engine kept stalling. Finallly, we found deeper water and although the engine hesitated a couple of times, we were able to get back to the boat lift without problems after cruising for about half an hour.

I figure all was good again, but the next day the engine started but after 5 minutes stalled and would turn over but would not start again. We were close enough to the house to get back with paddles.(we face Sarasota Bay in Longboat Key, FL). I waited until the next day and tried to start the engine; it did cough and wheeze and started briefly, but that's it. The gas gauge showed less than a quarter tank, and I put in two more gallons in case the reading was inaccurate. But no help. The batteries, spark plugs, and water fuel separator are six months old, about 10 hrs.

I was told by a neighbor to check the sea water strainer to see if the engine was running hot, but I did not notice the temperature gauge on the cruise back from the canal, and did not go far enough the next day for the engine to overheat even if the strainer was clogged.
I was also told to check the pick up inside the gas tank, the antisyphon valve, and put more gas in the tank.

Please give me an idea where are the strainer, and the antisyphon valve in a Maxum, and how do I check the pick up inside the gas tank--is that a big job. I intend to call a mechanic but would like to some guidance to better understand what he might tell me. Your thoughts will be appreciated. Many thanks.