70's johnson enigine problem

[buckleybuck]

I have a 1973 johnson 20hp tiller. It started acting up recently and will not stay running when i put it into gear. It has to be in a high idle when in neutral to stay going. It started on the 3rd pull every time last summer and now it is hard to get going. I think it may have to do with the carb..? Any help would be great.
Thanks

 

[bktheking]

Re: 1973 Johnson Out board till 20hp, engine problem

Re: 1973 Johnson Out board till 20hp, engine problem

Sounds like a carb cleaning is in order, idle circuit is dirty causing it to only run off idle. Get a kit, pull it apart (totally apart, plugs and such) and soak it in carb cleaner over night, wash it with water and blow out all the passages. Pay attention how it comes apart for reassembly, float height and whatnot. Turn the idle screw all the way in while counting the turns, this will give you a starting point to reassemble the idle needle. Heck it may just need adjustment if you want to try that first. Turning it to the right is lean, left is rich, try richening up the fuel at idle.

 

[buckleybuck]

Re: 1973 Johnson Out board till 20hp, engine problem

Re: 1973 Johnson Out board till 20hp, engine problem

Thanks!
I will deffinately give that a try. I appreciate the help.