Johnson V4 85hp 1980 Choke & Plugs

[Waljax]

1)I've been using Champion Spark Plugs UL77V with no ground electrode. They are the same model (but new plugs) that were in the motor when I bought it. The recommended plug is QL77JC4. I've assumed that I'm using the better plug but wonder if this is affecting my performance at all.

2)Also, I notice that the choke butterflies are closed with the fast start lever down or up. The only time they ever open is when I put it in gear. This doesn't seem quite right to me. Is this normal?

Thanks,
Mike

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Johnson V4 85hp 1980 Choke & Plugs

the difference in the plugs, is the Q does not interfere with the radio, transmissions, and recieving. radio buzz.

i think you're seeing the throttle plate closed, not the choke butterfly, open the throttle plate, and activate the choke. the engine requires less air to run at idle.

 

[Walker]

Re: Johnson V4 85hp 1980 Choke & Plugs

Your UL77V is a surface gap plug, in fact, its one of Champion's Racing Series Plugs. Designed for sustained high speed operation.
Unless you blast around wide open on the water all day put the QL77JC4's in it.

 

[ob]

Re: Johnson V4 85hp 1980 Choke & Plugs

I don't believe that engine has any choke flaps ,but rather incorporates a solenoid activated fuel primer.As mentioned above ,what you are seeing is the throttle plates , which will remain closed until throttle is applied.The throttle plates however should open to a limited distance by actuating the fast idle lever.Otherwise the fast idle lever feature within the control box needs looking into or the throttle cable is out of adjutment.You should be able to run the rpms up to near 3500 with the fast idle lever all the way up and be able to throttle the rpms down from there after cold startup.

 

[Waljax]

Re: Johnson V4 85hp 1980 Choke & Plugs

That sounds like you guys know what you're talking about.
Thanks for all the great advice
Mike

 

[Waljax]

Re: Johnson V4 85hp 1980 Choke & Plugs

I guess my motor just needed a lot of TLC. I checked and reconnected all the fuel hoses, rebuilt the carbs, checked and reconnected all the electrical connections, replaced the powerpack and I'm happy to say it ran like a top yesterday. It's never run better since I've had it.

Thanks for all your help,

Mike