Johnson VRO System Question

[dsnyder]

Is there any gauge I can install in the oil line (I'm thinking pressure or vacuum gauge) that will tell me if the VRO system is working correctly? I sometimes don't run my boat for several months and everytime I take it out for the first time in a while, I wonder if I'm cooking my engine with a faulty VRO.<br /><br />It is installed on a 1986 Johnson 90hp. About 10 years ago, I had the updated alcohol resistant VRO installed. Thanks in advance.<br /><br />Dave

 

[OBJ]

Re: Johnson VRO System Question

Hi Dave...welcome to the forums.<br /><br />Don't know of any gauge that can be permanetly installed on the rig.<br /><br />Best choice is regular PM (preventive maint)maint. Check the hoses in the fuel and oil circuits. Replace any that are stiff and have lost their flex. These hoses lose can their grip on connection nipples and cause leaks.<br />Same goes for the fuel supply line from the gas gan or tank. If the primer bulb is getting old, replace it.<br /><br />When was the last time the VRO oil reservoir was cleaned out and the filter sock replaced? Don't know? Be a good time to do it.<br /><br />Make sure the VRO alarms are working. With out these, you can fry your engine and not know it. <br /><br />I know you said you don't use the engine often but don't over look periodic maint. It'll keep the engine running when you do use it.<br /><br />Last, get a service manual. OEM is preferred and can be ordered through a dealer. These have sections on general tune up and care. Generics can be ordered right here from iboats.<br /><br />Don't hesitate to post any other questions you may have. Good Luck.

 

[rodbolt]

Re: Johnson VRO System Question

hello<br /> I recommend replacing the VRO pump and pick up assy every 6 years or so. its cheap insurance against potential problems. check the oil tank lines. if they are the old black vynil lines are they hard as a rock? other than that cleant the tank periodically and test the alarm system once per year and go boating.<br /> good luck and keep posting

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: Johnson VRO System Question

Wonder if some good braided lines wouldn't be a good investment to replace the existing ones? That seems to be the # one problem, next to a dirty reservoir and clogged pick-up. If you updated to the newer VRO lately, I wouldn't give it a thought. Just do the maintenence every once in a while and use decent oil. And check the horn often!! It's the only thing that will save you!

 

[seahorse5]

Re: Johnson VRO System Question

Your pump should have a blue-grey fuel outlet fitting if you got it 10 years ago. If by chance it has a brown fitting, that is the old style pump and I recommend replacing it.<br /><br />The newest pumps, '98 and later, has a replacable black fuel outlet fitting held in place by an oval steel retainer fastended by 2 Torx scres.<br /><br />A quick test for the alarm is to make sure the horn works, ground a tan temp sender wire while the key is ON, first. Then hook up a can of gas mixed 50:1 and run the motor. Pinch off or disconnect the oil line at the pump inlet, and wait for the alarm to sound on and off beeps. It takes sometimes 10 minutes at idle to use up the residual fuel inside the pump before the alarm goes off.

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: Johnson VRO System Question

Good Post and advice, Seahorse! I think he did update, though.

 

[dsnyder]

Re: Johnson VRO System Question

Thanks all!!!<br /><br />From what Seahorse wrote, I'm assuming that there is a warning system built in. Just let me know if I'm interpreting this correctly. The little whistle I hear when I turn the key on is not only a low oil horn, it also sounds if the oil supply is interrupted? (I get this from the pinching the hose test that was suggested). Is that right?<br /><br />Thanks again.<br /><br />Dave

 

[OBJ]

Re: Johnson VRO System Question

Dave....there are three alarms associated with your engine.<br /><br />A steady tone means overheat. Your engine for some reason has gotten hot.<br /><br />A 1/2 sec. tone every 20 sec's. or so indicates a low level in the oil reservoir.<br /><br />An urgent 1/2 sec. tone every 1/2 sec. indicates no oil or restricted oil supply to the VRO pump.<br /><br />Next time you get to a Johnny/Rude dealer, ask him about a sticker you can get with the alarms on it. You can stick it in a handy place so you will know what the tones mean.