First Post...2000 Johnson 225 probs

sneno77

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Jul 4, 2008
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Hello,

I'm new here, referred by a friend who said there's lot of good info on the site. I've searched the forum, but haven't got quite what I'm looking for.
I have a 2000 Johnson 225 outboard that I bought new and have had NO problems with whatsoever until now. It's pushing an 18' jet sled that is heavy as heck and it does it well. I installed a jet pump on it before ever turning it over (so...I have an unused lower unit if anyone is looking for one). The last couple of outings I've had a hard time keeping fuel running to the engine. I can work the hand pump and fire it up and it runs great for about 10 secs and then bogs out to an idle, sometimes dying of starvation. I replaced the water/fuel separator thinking that was my problem, but it didn't fix it. My next thought was the inline fuel filter. From what I've said, does this sound like a reasonable suspicion? The gas tank showed a little rust when we tore into it during the motor install, so we cleaned it out as best we could and changed filters twice during the first 10 tanks. I'm assuming a small amount of fine rust has got past the first filter and plugged the inline? I would just order one and test my theory, but I have some friends coming this weekend for a fishing trip and I need to get it running NOW. Is there any problem running a 5/16th inline filter from the local Napa? I live in rural MT and don't have a Johnson dealer w/in 100miles. Thanks.
 

tashasdaddy

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Re: First Post...2000 Johnson 225 probs

it sounds like you are in for a fuel pump or a carb rebuild. looks like paddles for the 4th. if you are using a built in tank, you also need to install and fuel/water separating filter.
 

sneno77

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Re: First Post...2000 Johnson 225 probs

"I replaced the water/fuel separator thinking that was my problem, but it didn't fix it."

I do have a fuel/water separator on it. What should I be looking for as far as symptoms as to wether it's the fuel pump or the carbs? Thanks.
 

mikesea

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Re: First Post...2000 Johnson 225 probs

Before tearing into the carbs,you might try a portable fuel tank that you know has clean gas in it.The inline filter from napa is ok BUT,needs to be 3/8.5/16 may work ok,but 3/8 is what it needs.Im assuming the fuel tank is built in,it may have more problems within the fittings and pick up etc,thus suggestion for tank.
 

CharlieB

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Re: First Post...2000 Johnson 225 probs

CAUTION running lean with a poor fuel supply will damage pistons due to excessive lean (HOT) combustion temps melting pistons.

You have a potentially serious problem that MUST BE dealt with immediately.

Double check ALL fuel lines especially connections, any connection could allow air to be sucked in and cause the engine to run lean and run out of fuel. Aging fuel lines contaminated by the alcohol in the fuel deteriorate and can leak.

Install a short length of clear hose next to the fuel pump and watch for any bubbles indicating air leaking into the system. Once you are sure that all leaks are cured test the fuel pump pressure and check fuel flow into a jar to ensure adequate fuel flow for that 225.
 

sneno77

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Jul 4, 2008
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Re: First Post...2000 Johnson 225 probs

Thanks for all the great info. I've got a local guy that I trust w/ anything mechanical that said he would take a look at it. Sounds like a better solution than me blowing something up.
 

sneno77

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Jul 4, 2008
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Update...more questions.

Update...more questions.

Took the boat to my friends house today. We changed the inline filter and found the old one to be very clean...not the problem. Disconnected the fuel line at the manifold and worked the hand pump...lot's of fuel, no blockage. Turned the motor over a few times and only a trickle of fuel came out. Looks like a bad fuel pump to me, but I thought I'd see what the experts thought.
I guess I can't complain, this motor has given me 8yrs of great service w/ NO problems till now.
Does anyone have any suggestions as to where to get a pump for a reasonable price? All the ones I've found have been close to $400...ouch. Thanks again. ns
 

sneno77

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Jul 4, 2008
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Update..

Update..

Figured I'd give an update now that I'm up and running again. I talked to the Johnson technician from the BRP site and he said from all the details I had given him my VRO fuel pump was bad. He gave me a number for a parts house in Seattle and I got a pump ordered up. Got it installed last week and I'm back up and running. The motor has been running great for over a week now...appears the problem has been solved. Thanks again for all the help.
 

triton205

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May 26, 2009
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Re: First Post...2000 Johnson 225 probs

do you still have the lower unit from your 225. im looking for one ,i know your post is a year old but i just found it
 

sneno77

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Re: First Post...2000 Johnson 225 probs

do you still have the lower unit from your 225. im looking for one ,i know your post is a year old but i just found it

Triton...I see you haven't posted since, so you might not be around, but if so, I still have the Lower Unit available. Let me know if you still need one. I need to get it out of the basement before my wife sends it to recycling.
 

Mr5Keepers

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Mar 24, 2010
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Re: First Post...2000 Johnson 225 probs

Hello,

Is the lower unit still available?

Steve 256-771-3306
 
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