71 Johnson 20hp seahorse that sputters when running with the motor cover on

racerone

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Dec 28, 2013
Messages
38,412
Is it running in a barrel ??---------Do you have adequate ventilation ??
 

xbilly97X

Recruit
Joined
Mar 21, 2015
Messages
4
I have a 1971 Johnson 20hp seahorse that sputters when running with the motor cover on. If i remove the motor cover it runs great! I had the powerhead gasket replaced last year along with a carb cleaning and new plugs. What may be causing my issue?
 

nwcove

Admiral
Joined
May 16, 2011
Messages
6,293
you have an exhaust leak , have a good look at the ph gasket and the exhaust cover gasket.
 

nwcove

Admiral
Joined
May 16, 2011
Messages
6,293
cly and crankcase section at marineengine.....parts 23, 24 25 etc.i personally would focus on the base gasket tho.
 
Last edited:

AlTn

Commander
Joined
Mar 9, 2010
Messages
2,813
exhaust cover gaskets ..part no. 0316162 < 2 needed >....if you have to pull the powerhead...powerhead to exhaust adapter gasket is #0314421
 

racerone

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Dec 28, 2013
Messages
38,412
?????--The way I read he has replaced the powerhead gasket already.
 

nwcove

Admiral
Joined
May 16, 2011
Messages
6,293
?????--The way I read he has replaced the powerhead gasket already.

yes, but was the job done right? were the mating surfaces cleaned up, have the bolts loosened etc etc. just because the base gasket has been replaced at a shop does not mean its not leaking !! jmo
 

xbilly97X

Recruit
Joined
Mar 21, 2015
Messages
4
thanks for all the input guys! I really feel you are leading me in the right direction. should I use a gasket mate when replacing these gaskets?
 

AlTn

Commander
Joined
Mar 9, 2010
Messages
2,813
thought of one other possibility...is the lower spark plug wire or boot arcing to the hood latch when the hood is on?....not likely,but wouldn't be the first time...if gasket mate = gasket sealer...yes, both sides of the three in question
 

boobie

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Nov 5, 2009
Messages
20,826
Take the motor cover off and run some oil through the carb and see if you can see where it's smoking.
 
Top