1976 55hp johnson dies when put in gear

[rjcamel2355]

Hey guys I've gotta 1976 55hp Johnson motor, 2 cylinder with great spark to both plugs. I've tried different tanks. And this has me at my wits end.

I can start the motor and itll idle all day long, but when put into gear it falls on its face and dies, only way I've been able to keep it going is to use the high idle lever, rev it up and quickly put it into gear and take off. I'm sure that isnt good for it, and I'd like to fix it.

any ideas what may be causing this, I considered putting a hotfoot in the boat but I'd rather just get it right first.

 

[racerone]

a compression test should be done.

 

[rjcamel2355]

Yessir I did a compression test, both cylinders by my gauge were 145psi (not saying that gauge number is accurate but they are even)

 

[racerone]

Cleaned the carburetors already ?

 

[rjcamel2355]

Yessir carbs are clean

 

[racerone]

And what else has been done already !----Sounds like everything is in order.

 

[oldboat1]

Measure the spark with an open air gauge (adjustable) and post results.

 

[rjcamel2355]

Went through the carbs checked compression checked spark with plugs out, and with plugs in and a spark gap tester. Everything looked in order you can start it on the hose and all is good. Put it in the water and when you put it in gear it falls on its face forward or reverse. Once you get it going itll run like a scalded dog. This one has me stumped