'97 Johnson 200 runs, but doesn't accelerate in gear

[valdr]

Last weekend we took the boat out into the sound, tubing with my nieces. I am glad that I didn't go out fishing that day as I would have had trouble coming back.

After an afternoon of tubing going back to the dock the motor would not rev or accelerate; even with wide open throttle the motor was just running around 2000 rpm's (we made it back to land safely).

Back on land I ran the motor on a garden hose. It ran great and I had no problem to rev the motor in neutral ( to 5000rpm's, of course for only for a very short time).

It seems there is some when the gear is put in that prevent the motor to rev. I don’t want to put it in gear and run it while out of water. Any ideas on how to go from here? Any input appreciate.

 

[Theoutdoorsman]

Re: '97 Johnson 200 runs, but doesn't accelerate in gear

Could have been overheating, fuel delivery, or even a minor electrical issue. You might consider starting with a compression test to make certain you have a good solid foundation to work with before exploring further options. If everthing checks out OK with the compression test, you should go from there. Others will likely agree, DO NOT run the motor over 1500 rpm's while on the hose!! You risk having the motor "run away" (so to speak) and not be able to shut it down, which could cause serious damage to the powerhead!! There are some very knowlegable persons on board here to assist you with your problems. Be patient in waiting for replies, be persistent in getting your problem taken care of, and you'll be boating again before you know it. You'r in the right place to look for answers. Best of luck to you!........... ALAN

 

[valdr]

Re: '97 Johnson 200 runs, but doesn't accelerate in gear

Thanks for the advice, I'll check on compression, etc. However I have the feel that it had some to do with the shifting in and out of gear. It was like the motor runs fine in neutral, but not in gear. I'll also check the cable stuff...

 

[Theoutdoorsman]

Re: '97 Johnson 200 runs, but doesn't accelerate in gear

Once you get the numbers from the compression testing, post them here and I'm sure someone with a lot more knowledge than myself will chime in and lead you in the right direction. There are folks here who have a great deal of knowledge to share with you. I'm sure of it. I know I wouldn't start messing with anything unless I knew for sure what I was doing. Take my advice, I learned the hard way! No since in two of us learning that way. d