1965 johnson 40hp no power

[mattaber]

my 1965 johnson 40hp seems to be lacking power the motor sounds as if it's not winding out all the way at full throttle. is their such a thing as a restrictor or govenor on outboards if so or not how can i increase the power?

 

[dkondelik]

Re: 1965 johnson 40hp no power

Hate to sound "old hat", but there are a few things that you should check to be sure that you're working with a fundamentally sound machine.<br /><br />1. Check compression. All cylinders should be within 10% of each other. If not you may have carbon build up (simple to resolve), or,....bigger problems.<br /><br />2. Confirm that you ahve good spark on all cylinders.<br /><br />3. Check condition of the plugs. Do any of then look "Shiney Clean"? This could indicate that water is entering the system some where. Are any of the plugs particularly "oily"? This might show a cylinder that does not have consistant fire.<br /><br />Some more information could be VERY helpful. Have you always owned the motor? Has it sat for an extended period? Was it winterized before it was put up?<br /><br />There are many REALLY sharp guys on this site. I'm sure if you can provide sufficient information, someone here can stear you to a solution.<br /><br />Good Luck<br />Have Fun!

 

[OBJ]

Re: 1965 johnson 40hp no power

Welcome to the formum Matt....<br /><br />Along with what Kondike said, and assuming that you have had the engine for a while, check that the carb throttle plate is coming all the way open at WOT (wide open throttle). These older motors have a throttle link that goes from the carb to the anchor under the armature plate. It's a rod with a bend in it. Once full spark advance is reached, the rod finishes opening the throttle. You may want to look around and get a service manual for the engine as sometimes these older motors can be a problem to get the linkages adjusted correctly if you don't have the procedure. Check at the bottom of the page here for service manuals. These are generic manuals that cover a lot of ground on outboards. They might have one that covers your older motor. Or check with Ken Cook. His outfit reporduces original service manuals. You can find him on line.<br /><br />Good Luck...Jim

 

[wilde1j]

Re: 1965 johnson 40hp no power

You need to put a tach on the motor to know what power it's producing. You should get ~ 5500 RPM at WOT if it's propped right and running good. A tach is the only way to know.