1959 10hp Johnson hi and low speed needle seating

[thull]

I can't figure out how to seat the hi and low speed needles in order to back them out the appropriate # of turns. The low speed is the upper needle and has a split end that the screw that holds the knob on threads into. After removing the knob and screw, I tried to put a flathead screwdriver to it but it just spreads apart. A pair of pliers just messes up the grooves the knob fits onto.

The hi speed needle is the lower one. This has a linkage that only allows you to seat the needle so far before it butts up against the shut off switch. It doesn't let you fully seat the hi speed needle. I tried to undo the linkage but stopped pulling because I thought something was gonna break if I kept going. I attached some photos I found online. Hopefully someone out there has worked on this same carb. Thanks.

 

[F_R]

Re: 1959 10hp Johnson hi and low speed needle seating

Where are you going with this? Obviously, you have the carburetor removed from he motor. Are you planning on cleaning or rebuilding it? If so, the answer to your question will be obvious when you get it apart. EDIT: Oops, I just noticed you said that picture isn't of your carburetor........

Otherwise, unless somebody has already messed with it, there is no need to go through the preliminary adjustment procedure. It should be very close to correct from last time it ran.

You aready figured out what holds the knobs & linkage. Use the knobs to turn the needles. The pull-off knobs should come off with a bit of persuasion. Will something break? Well you are dealing with 50 year old plastic and stuff happens.

 

[thull]

Re: 1959 10hp Johnson hi and low speed needle seating

Thanks for the reply. I am planning to clean and rebuild the carb. I was just trying to see if it would run now. I just fixed the ignition (replaced points). I bought this motor non-running and don't know it's history. It turned over and ran for 2 seconds in the test tank. I thought it may run poorly from either a dirty/clogged carb, or maybe somebody messed with the needles, or both.

 

[steelespike]

Re: 1959 10hp Johnson hi and low speed needle seating

I think a little WD40 or other lube sprayed on the knob and shaft should help get the knobs off.
You may have to loosen the packing nut to be able to turn the needle.
You will have to remove the linkage and reset it once you have done a complete adjustment.
If the coils haven't been replaced they will very likely need it.