Help please no spark

[chattyrona]

We are still trying to get our 1957or 1958 Johnson 35hp seahorse to run again. We even have aquired the pressure tank . However we cant even get a spark to come when we test for one of the top cylinder we have put new plugs in it and we have replaced the coils. Any help please?

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: Help please no spark

With a ohm meter, check for continuity between the HT lead (the one that connects to the spark plug) and the coil primary and ground wires. They'll need to be disconnected to do that check.

I assume you've either replaced the condenser and points or you're absolutely sure that they're okay. Any doubt..... replace those items.

Spark plugs should be Champion J6C plugs gapped at .030.

Have the flywheel keyway aligned with the fiber rubbing portion of the points, then set the points so that a .020 gauge will pass thru but a .022 will not.

 

[chattyrona]

Re: Help please no spark

Thanks for the quick help. We have not changed the points or condensor yet I guess that would be next, but the reason is my husband said the points look so good almost new. But we got this motor from an abandoned boat so we have no idea of its history. How can you tell if the condensor is bad?

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Help please no spark

Chatty, You may be able to tell if the condenser is bad by removing the wire and using a Volt/Ohm meter to test it. First put the meter on the Rx1 Continuity setting. Not connect the positive lead of the meter to the condenser wire and the negative wire to engine block (ground). You may see the needle move a bit. Now switch the meter to read volts DC. You may see the needle read a little voltage. if so the condenser is likely good.

Why not just relace it? It is a much better idea than trying to test it.

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: Help please no spark

Look closely at the points. If there's any arcing on the contact area, the condenser is bad. If the points look okay, you might try cleaning the contact areas with acetone or laquer thinner.