90 Johnson - primer bulb does not stay firm

RaleighBob

Recruit
Joined
Jun 28, 2010
Messages
5
I had my 90hp Johnson rebuilt and was told by my mechanic I needed to install new fuel line all the way from the tank to the engine, install a water fuel separator and new primer bulb. He said the old bulb was losing it's prime. I did all that and remember the old bulb would stay firm after I had primed it but the new one never does get firm. Is this because of the water fuel separator?
I don't have any problems cranking it.

Thanks for any help.........:redface:
 
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ondarvr

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Apr 6, 2005
Messages
11,527
Re: 90 Johnson - primer bulb does not stay firm

There only a couple of reasons the bulb won't get hard.

1. The new bulb is defective. This is common on cheaper models.

2. Floats in the carb aren't sealing correctly.

3. Fuel line leak.

The bulb isn't supposed to stay hard after the motor starts though, that's normal.
 

RaleighBob

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Joined
Jun 28, 2010
Messages
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Re: 90 Johnson - primer bulb does not stay firm

I had it on the lake last week and noticed it would not stay firm before I cranked it. This afternoon I tried pumping it up again and it would not stay firm either. Don't know if bulb I have is inexpensive but it is a Moeller. When the motor was rebuilt the carburetors were rebuilt but I guess the float(s) could be a problem. Took it out on the lake the other day and it didn't appear to have a fuel leak.
Thanks so much for the response.........:)
 

Al-53

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jul 17, 2008
Messages
491
Re: 90 Johnson - primer bulb does not stay firm

Drop a Viagra in the tank......

I bought a new primer bulb Atwood I believe..lasted 3 days and went bad..took it back got my money back and got a OMC one....so far 3 seasons going good...

Al
 

RaleighBob

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Joined
Jun 28, 2010
Messages
5
Re: 90 Johnson - primer bulb does not stay firm

AL
Roger and Dodger...... I will get an OMC replacement next week. and yes I do check my pisser..... I do have idiot lights but that is just what they are...

Many Thanks RB
 
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