1996 Johnson Outboard not running well

Quinnfloor

Cadet
Joined
Jun 12, 2006
Messages
11
We were out last night and the boat stalled at ful throttle. Almost seemed locked and wouldn't run over. 5 mins later it would idle rough then nothing. Today I went out got it running seemed rough then did the same thing. I thought dirty gas so I put new gas in, carb cleaner in the gas. Know it'll start easy may idle a tick lower then normal but still isn't the same. I tought at one point when I got it warm that it was knocking at all rpm's. I'll let it set and it'll start right up. I filter on the outboard is clean. I don't trust it to go out right now and don't want to hurt it by running it. WHAT IS UP!
 

Walker

Captain
Joined
Jun 15, 2002
Messages
3,085
Re: 1996 Johnson Outboard not running well

What motor is it and do a compression test.
 

Pony

Rear Admiral
Joined
Jun 27, 2004
Messages
4,355
Re: 1996 Johnson Outboard not running well

What year Quinnfloor?? If it is new enough it might have warning systems, if its older it may not.

You really do need to do a compression test before anything else. The symptoms you escribe could be as simple as a blocked fuel vent/ pick-up tube or it could be an impeller that has broken apart and clogged the passages causing some overheating an piston damage. Only a compression test will show you for sure where you need to start troubleshooting.

EDIT: JUST SAW THE YEAR IN THE TITLE:$
 

Quinnfloor

Cadet
Joined
Jun 12, 2006
Messages
11
Re: 1996 Johnson Outboard not running well

I installed new spark plugs, put carb cleaner in the gas and still had the same problem. I motor appears to be knocking more and even sounds diffrent when it is turning over. 3 of the plugs were black and one was more of a tan color. The dealer told me to put oil directly in the gas. He said that if the injector system isn't working it may to seizing up. The motor will still idle so he send if that is the problem the rings may reseat themselves. Still looking for answers? Thanks
 

Paul Moir

Admiral
Joined
Nov 5, 2002
Messages
6,847
Re: 1996 Johnson Outboard not running well

I normally only deal with older, smaller outboards, but I've got to ask if you'll tell me which dealer said that? I've never heard of an oiler taking out one cylinder, nor have I ever heard of piston rings repairing themselves.
Can you imagine a doctor, when confronted with the symptoms of a broken leg, suggesting you try walking it off for a week and seeing if it goes away?
Since I'm not knowledgeable I'll refrain from any advice, other than I would do exactly what Walker is suggesting and not run the outboard any more until it's fixed.
 

Pony

Rear Admiral
Joined
Jun 27, 2004
Messages
4,355
Re: 1996 Johnson Outboard not running well

2 strokes don't really knock unless there is something very very wrong. Like Paul said the oiler affects all the cylinders, since the oil is injected before the mixture gets into the combustion chamber....

Like Walker has suggested 2 times, and I suggested earlier, you can't do a single thing until you get a compression test done. Its not hard, and testers arent expensive. Running the engine anymore would be a bad idea
 
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