1972 Johnson 20 HP Hard to Pull

[amvaneyk]

It almost seems like there is too much compression. When I pull the plugs out of course is easily pulled. But when the plugs are in even the electric start has a hard time turning it over. Any suggestions??

 

[mables]

Re: 1972 Johnson 20 HP Hard to Pull

Most higher HP motors have a compression release to make them easier to start, I don't know if you motor has it or not but if it does it may not be working properly. Maybe someone else will let you know for sure wether it does or not.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: 1972 Johnson 20 HP Hard to Pull

20 hp does not have the compression releif, is it in gear? that makes them harder to pull.

 

[amvaneyk]

Re: 1972 Johnson 20 HP Hard to Pull

no its in neutral

 

[kbait]

Re: 1972 Johnson 20 HP Hard to Pull

They are a bit hard to pull, just the way they are. Make sure your battery is fully charged, and all connections are solid for the estart to spin correctly..

 

[bktheking]

Re: 1972 Johnson 20 HP Hard to Pull

It shouldn't be that hard, now a 40 with no compression relief- that's hard. Pull the flywheel, maybe the coils are rubbing or something came loose.

 

[oldcatamount]

Re: 1972 Johnson 20 HP Hard to Pull

Had that happen to me once. come to find out, the ignition points were gapped to close. Might pay to check that.

 

[amvaneyk]

Re: 1972 Johnson 20 HP Hard to Pull

I pulled the fly wheel everything looks normal.

 

[QuackAddict84]

Re: 1972 Johnson 20 HP Hard to Pull

The only thing I can think of that has not been mentioned is carbon buildup. If the combustion chambers are full of carbon, they will be artificially small which could cause artificially high compression. It may pay to decarb the engine, or pull the head and examine. Pulling the head will allow you to inspect the entire upper end as well.

 

[kbait]

Re: 1972 Johnson 20 HP Hard to Pull

If it pulls over easily w/o plugs in?? Maybe a screwy recoil or e-starter..