How do I know if timing is correct on 55 Johnson

[Joesnowmobiles]

I have got a 55 Horse Johnson a 1976 how would I set the timing. I am new to outboards so please explain it to me as if I was an idiot! Thanks Guys

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: How do I know if timing is correct on 55 Johnson

Joe.....To set the timing on that 55hp Johnson, have the s/plugs out, and have the throttle at full, set that timer base under the flywheel tight against the rubber stop on the end of the full spark timer advance stop screw (wire it against that stop if necessary). <br /><br />Rig a spark tester and have the spark gap set to 7/16". Hook up the timing light to the (top) #1 plug wire. Crank the engine over and set the spark advance to 4° less than what the engine calls for. <br /><br />I don't know full spark advance setting your engine calls for, but to pick a figure, say your engine calls for 28°, set the timing at 24°. The reasoning for the 4° difference is that when the engine is actually running, due to the nature of the solid state ignition componets, the engine gains the extra 4°. <br /><br />If you set the engine to its true setting at cranking speed, when running it will advance beyond its limit by 4° which will set up pre-ignition causing guaranteed piston damage! You don't want that to take place. <br /><br />Be sure to use your own engines spark advance settings, not the one I picked out of the air here in my notes.

 

[Joesnowmobiles]

Re: How do I know if timing is correct on 55 Johnson

Thanks Joe for the help, one other question though you talked about setting the timing advance. How do you set that is there a screw or adjustment somewhere on the engine? I know the engine should run at 19 should it line up with the little arrow that is next to the flywheel when I use my timing gun?

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: How do I know if timing is correct on 55 Johnson

Joe..... If your engine is supposed to run with the full spark advance set to 19°, follow my previous instructions, and with your timing light aimed at that small timing arrow (at cranking speed), set the timing to 15°.<br /><br />The part whereas you would make an adjustment if needed is the full "spark timer advance stop screw" that has the rubber stop on the end of it. The one under the flywheel that the timer base is up against.

 

[Joesnowmobiles]

Re: How do I know if timing is correct on 55 Johnson

Thanks again Joe for your help I will give it a try this weekend and let you know what happens. Thanks

 

[jhdyck]

Re: How do I know if timing is correct on 55 Johnson

Hello Joe Reeves I also have just purchased a 55 johnson and need to set the timing! I am wondering if I can just leave the spark plugs hooked to the coils and ground them to the motor instead of riging a spark tester?