1976 35hp pull start tiller Johnson won't start

[ddyer]

I recently bought this motor and can't get it to start. It has decent compression on both cylinders and has spark. I replaced the points and condensers. I took apart and cleaned the carberator and it is getting gas into it. I also replaced and gapped the new spark plugs. I don't see any wires that are shorting out either. the head gasket is worn through in a couple places, but I didn't figure that would keep it from starting. It also has one of the coils replaced from the previous owner. He got rid of it because it ran this spring one time and then couldn't get it started again. Some times it acts like it might start, makes a loud pop, but then nothing. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

 

[JB]

Re: 1976 35hp pull start tiller Johnson won't start

Check that the plug wires are not reversed, DD. Then confirm that the flywheel key is not sheared.<br /><br />Then look here: http://www.iboats.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=36;t=000001 <br /><br />Welcome to iboats, and good luck.

 

[ddyer]

Re: 1976 35hp pull start tiller Johnson won't start

I finally did get the motor to start a couple of times, but it wasn't easy, a lot of pulling. I think when the previous owner replaced a coil, he plugged the wires together incorrectly, when I switched them, it finally started. It ran fine, but when I turned it off, I couldn't get it started for about an hour, so I am not sure when I need to do so I can start it easier. When I took the head off the back, the gasket was holy in a few spots, would that keep it from sealing to start, or at the carb intake. Would using sea foam benefit starting it? Thanks for all the help. This is a great place to get good advice. I am a novice for sure.