Compression

rodsnguns

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jan 18, 2026
Messages
32
Will a mid 70s 70hp Johnson still run decent with the compression on all 3 cylinders averaging 70 to 80 psi ?
 

rodsnguns

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jan 18, 2026
Messages
32
Ok, went and got a higher end compression tester to see if my obviously cheep one was junk. The original readings were all 3 between 70-80. The better guage shows top-115, mid-110, and bottom 120. I assume these numbers are acceptable for a 1977 year motor ?
 

Crosbyman

Admiral
Joined
Nov 5, 2006
Messages
6,003
not so bad for a 50 year old engine...
if it works don't fix it.

maybe try some engine cleaner/decarb product to clean out some carbon deposits. Some like Seafoam some don't.. no harm in trying see utubes.

Evinrude engine cleaner or Merc power tune should flush out some nasty stuff.
 
Top