1995 90 Johnson Ocean Runnner Dies

wmacleod

Cadet
Joined
Nov 7, 2007
Messages
7
Let me start by saying that I'm completely new to boating. I'd also like to say that this site is amazing. I've been able to learn quite a bit from the collective boating knowledge found on this site.

The engine in question has sat for roughly 3 months. I've cleaned the carbs, replaced the fuel system, added a water/fuel separator. Pressure is good on the primer bulb, carbs are not leaking; however, the control box is old and seems to not advance the timing enough. I've adjusted the cables to combat this problem. I've also replaced both the starter motor and solenoid. I added some seafoam to the gas.

I follow the cold-start procedures from the FAQ section. The engine fires up and will fast idle, but when the throttle lever is lowered it sputters and dies. There's also a lot of smoke and what I believe to be unburned fuel/oil coming out. When it dies I have to let it sit. It won't immediately fire back up. I'm guessing it's flooded.

How long should I let the engine fast idle? Also, are there any simple tips that someone new to this may not be getting? Any suggestions will be helpful.

Thanks
 

Chris1956

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 25, 2004
Messages
28,103
Re: 1995 90 Johnson Ocean Runnner Dies

it is difficult to diagnose your issue or issues, based on your description. Does that motor have the QuickStart feature? If you do not know, you need to get a OEM Service manual, in order to troubleshoot the fuel and ignition systems.

When you cleaned the carbs did you adjust the floats and idle mixture to spec? Does the motor warm up properly? The thermostats open at about 140 degrees. Do the heads get warm?
 

tashasdaddy

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Nov 11, 2005
Messages
51,019
Re: 1995 90 Johnson Ocean Runnner Dies

lets start with the basics, have you done a compression test? spark test with a sparktester? should jump 7/16 inch. you say you cleaned the carbs, did you soak them of just use spray carb cleaner, did you remove and clean the all the jets.
these are the basics we need to start trouble shooting.
 

D445547

Cadet
Joined
Mar 18, 2008
Messages
24
Re: 1995 90 Johnson Ocean Runnner Dies

Sounds like it's running too rich. Try turning the main needle on the carb in a bit.
 

wmacleod

Cadet
Joined
Nov 7, 2007
Messages
7
Re: 1995 90 Johnson Ocean Runnner Dies

The carbs were not soaked, just cleaned. Maybe I should do this.

It will start up and run fine with the warm up lever lifted. Last night when I tried to shift it out of neutral it died again. But I waited a little while came back and started it, this time it seemed to run at higher RPMs. I was also able to shift it into gear. I'm not sure why or how. I shut it off and turned it back on several times with no problems. It did seem to be running at high RPMs, possibly higher than normal at idle. Unfortunately I don't have a RPM tachometer. It doesn't idle consistently, kind of revs three times and then revs again.

I will try to start it again this evening and see what happens. Thanks for your help.
 

tashasdaddy

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Nov 11, 2005
Messages
51,019

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