15 HP Johnny-Needle Valve Setting?

[nightstalker]

I bought a 1977 15 Johnny that I have been rebuilding the past year or so (new pump, thermostat, carb, etc.) She's ready to go but I'm not sure where I should set the needle valve to fire her up. The original needle valve was broken, so I couldn't count the removal turns. Anyone know where I should start? Also, is there a way I can tell if the head needs to be machined? I have a new head gasket but I'm not sure if I should machine the head just to be sure. Finally, there is a high speed adjustment knob on the starboard side that isn't connected to anything. Anyone know what it was for or where it connects too? The previous owner said it was never connected and he never touched it?<br />Stalker<br />Stalker

 

[R.Johnson]

Re: 15 HP Johnny-Needle Valve Setting?

Start at 1 1/2 turns from the bottom, This size engine should not require any machineing of the head. The knob on the side is an idle stop. It's to keep the engine from stalling at idle. It'snot connected to anything, it simply screws in, and out.

 

[chris in va]

Re: 15 HP Johnny-Needle Valve Setting?

I *just* bought a '77 9.9, and it has an idle speed adjustment knob on the side, probably the same on your 15 as they are the same exact motor.

 

[nightstalker]

Re: 15 HP Johnny-Needle Valve Setting?

Thanks for the help. I'll get her ship shape and let you know how I make out.<br />Stalker

 

[rodbolt]

Re: 15 HP Johnny-Needle Valve Setting?

hello<br /> on the head<br /> clean it with a scotchbrite pad on a drill. use a straight edge and a feeler gauge. anything over .002" from flat indicates its time to resurface it.

 

[nightstalker]

Re: 15 HP Johnny-Needle Valve Setting?

I had the head done just to be sure. I put her together, gasses her up,set the needle valve, and gave her a few pulls. She fired right up and with a little fine tuning of the valve, ran like a kitten. Thanks again for all the help.<br />Stalker