hard to start when warm

[Stammq]

I just purchased a 18-foot Boston Whaler boat with a Johnson 140-HP motor. I have noticed the same [hard to start and slow to warm up characteristics as mentioned above]. Unburned fuel slicking across the water and very smokey on start. These engines uses varriable oil injection which is known to be problematic, as I understand. Sometimes, I just have to wait a few minutes and try again. Once running, she runs great. I have been told that these are cold engines but they are pretty bullet proof. My engine is 20 years old and provided 150-PSI on each of the four cylinders. I am thinking of upgrading the oil injection module and possible looking at upgraded ignition systems with stronger spark but I am not sure if this is the right thing as I am a not very savy on outboard moters.

 

[racerone]

They are NOT cold engines at all.-------They start easy hot or cold !-----I would have your battery load tested ( even if new )-----And I would take the starter apart ( very easy ) for inspection and ohm check on armature.----Should read infinity on a digital meter.

 

[Chris1956]

What is the engine year and model number? A 20 YO 2 cycle engine would be a 2000 and a 60* looper. Not sure they came in 140HP.

 

[racerone]

The 90 degree looper 140 HP V-4 was last marketed in 1994.----So a model # should be posted.----Not every motor starts like a modern car.-----So explaining how you try and start this motor helps.----Are you pushing the key in and holding it in while cranking it over ?

 

[Crosbyman]

nobody could start my old Merc 500... all it needed was special TLC and started everytime ...

++ racerone comment

 

[oldboat1]

guessing it's not cranking fast enough. Sandpaper battery connections until bright and shiny. Test battery as mentioned above. Take the cover off the stater, and clean up the armature. Check brushes for wear. Use electrical cleaner, making sure it's dry before operating the starter.

 

[tphoyt]

If it runs fine when you get it going it could just be your starting procedure.
If you seeing unburned fuel you may be holding the key in to long.
Just try starting it by turning the key first and if it doesn’t kick off then push the key in for a second.

 

[racerone]

If using oil injection , check oil tank cap.-----Vent plugged ?