New/old boat

[rcollicott]

I just purchased a 1976 boat with a Johnson 115 model 115e176g. Engine runs great but likes to die sometimes at slow speeds. wide open runs great. hard to start cold and sometimes when warm. don't know if carbs have ever been worked on. Also seems to use a lot of fuel. 6 gallons only last a few hours mostly trolling when fishing. Is this normal for this engine? Live in Wyoming and do most of my boating in high altitude. Should I try to decarb first before trying to clean carbs or would I be looking for trouble? Should I consider re jetting carbs or can you even? Started with fresh fuel at 50 to 1 ratio. Thanks for your help!!!

 

[ezmobee]

Re: New/old boat

Sounds you need to clean and rebuild the carbs.

Those motors are thirsty. A carbed 2 stroke 115 outboard will use approximately 11.5 gallons per hour at wide open throttle. Backing off will of course significantly improve that, but yeah, six gallons isn't gonna last you real long.

 

[oldcatamount]

Re: New/old boat

A de-carb wouldn't help the carbs but would help clean the cylinders of carbon. Your motor will use about 10 -12 gallons per hour at WOT. A carb cleaning and re-building should fix your problem. Can't help you much with the re-jetting question, but I'm sure someone on this forum can give you advice.

 

[Monte1961]

Re: New/old boat

If memory serves me correctly, you can jet it up or down in .002" increments. Call your local ob dealer and see whats available.!

 

[rcollicott]

Re: New/old boat

Thanks fellas! I was afraid this engine would be a gas hog! Good thing I have a 9.8 Mercury for a kicker!

 

[RZR2007]

Re: New/old boat

I've got a 90hp and use 6 gallons in about an hour cruising at about 3,600- 4,000 rpm,fuel usage is about right for your motor, I'd be careful going with smaller jets and leaning it out...