Johnson 5hp SEA-HORSE No Spark

[JWilson]

I have been given an Johnson 5hp SEA-HORSE outboard motor. I have givn it new plugs and new fuel and new lower unit fluid. I have exausted my arm attempting to start it. It appears that I may have no spark. Anyone know how to tell me how to fix this problem?

 

[Paul Moir]

Re: Johnson 5hp SEA-HORSE No Spark

Welcome to Iboats, newbe.<br />To help you, we need to know when your engine was built. To know that, we need to know the model number. It should be on a metal tag on the side of the transom clamp. Sometimes it is also on the round convex silver plug on the engine block.

 

[JWilson]

Re: Johnson 5hp SEA-HORSE No Spark

oops, Sorry,<br /><br />Model : LO 11R<br />Serial: J2606740

 

[Paul Moir]

Re: Johnson 5hp SEA-HORSE No Spark

That looks like a LD-11 you have there, which is a 1966 5hp Johnson.<br />Ok, there should be two low voltage wires (ie, not the spark plug wires) coming from up underneath the flywheel. Disconnect and isolate those two wires and check for spark. <br />If spark doesn't return, the problem is under the flywheel, and you'll need a service manual to fix it. Fortuently, ignition system parts for your outboard are fairly inexpensive, and easily available. Even Iboats sells them. You can replace the whole thing for under $50.<br />Service manuals are available from Iboats, your local library, and you can get the superior factory service manuals from one of the following places:<br />TheOutboardWizard<br />Mastertech<br />Marine Engine<br />Ken Cook

 

[JB]

Re: Johnson 5hp SEA-HORSE No Spark

Hi, Newbie.<br /><br />I don't have any LO-11 in my book, but it only goes to 1964. Could be a '65 to '69 or it could be that you misread it.<br /><br />Go to FAQ, "Outboard wont start" and at least narrow your problem down some.<br /><br />Let us know what you find.

 

[JWilson]

Re: Johnson 5hp SEA-HORSE No Spark

You are right...it is LD-11...Thanks!<br /><br />But I do not find any low voltage wires coming from up underneath the flywheel...??? Other than the two spark Plug wires...do you have an e-mail I could send a few photos to in the morning?

 

[Paul Moir]

Re: Johnson 5hp SEA-HORSE No Spark

Sure - paul.moir@ns.sympatico.ca<br /><br />So I guess that model has no kill switch then?<br />The problem must be up under the flywheel. The most common problem is cracked ignition coils (due to age), but sometimes the points get crudded up. To remove the flywheel to see what's needed, you'll need to remove the flywheel nut and use an automotive 'harmonic balancer puller' and three high grade 3 or 4" long 1/4"-tpi screws, or some other puller that acts on the three screw holes in the flywheel. Any puller that operates on the edge will destroy the flywheel.<br />Then you'll have the entire igniton system in front of you. Iboats/NAPA autoparts 18-5181 ignition coils (x 2) and 18-5006 points and condensors (x 1).<br />Examine your spark plug wire and make sure it's still in good shape too. There should be no cracks in the insulation.<br />You'll need the manual for putting things back together, ie setting up the points and coils, and torquing the flywheel nut.<br /><br />EDIT: I overlooked something - did you actually test for spark? On both plugs? You should be able to draw a 3/8" arc.

 

[JWilson]

Re: Johnson 5hp SEA-HORSE No Spark

No kill switch that I can see.<br /><br />My fly wheel has the one nut in the center and 5 small .25" holes in the top of the wheel.<br /><br />Also, is there any signifaciance in the "R" In my model "LD-11R" ? I ask so , when I go to purchase a manual in the morning I am sure to get the right one.<br /><br />My plug wires are in Great shape as is (seemingly) everything under the lid on this old ourboard. It was really well cared for.<br /><br />Yes I did test for spark on both plugs...held the wires about .25 to .5 away from plug and could not get a visable arc. Is there a better way to check for spark?