1972 Johnson 85 tries to run backwards

[carmangary1]

My boat had been sitting all winter and I recently tried to get it running again. It is a 1972 Johnson 85. Before I started it up, I cleaned the carbs by taking them apart, dipping them, and reassembling them with new float, gaskets, etc. When I try to start the engine but doesn't fire. Now and then, when I let off the key, it will fire a few times but it spins the wrong way. I've never heard of a motor running backwards so I am not sure what to do. I did a compression check and there is 120# on each cylinder. Please help me get this silly engine working.<br /><br />Thanks,<br />Gary

 

[JB]

Re: 1972 Johnson 85 tries to run backwards

Hi Gary.<br /><br />Welcome to the board.<br /><br />Check your flywheel for a sheared key.<br /><br />If that is okay, look for a stator stuck at full advance.<br /><br />Good luck.

 

[carmangary1]

Re: 1972 Johnson 85 tries to run backwards

I removed the flywheel and the key is in good shape. I also checked that the timer base is operating properly and it is. It looks like the points might not be opening as much as they should but I will have to wait until tomorrow to check the gap. I noticed that the power pack is making a ticking noise that I had never noticed before whenever the ignition key is in the Run position (engine not started).

 

[carmangary1]

Re: 1972 Johnson 85 tries to run backwards

The problem was with the points. The portions that rides the cam on the shaft had worn down so that the points weren't opening as they should. A couple clicks to the left and now my boats starts up in less than a second and in the correct direction.<br /><br />Gary