Points gap question 73 Johnson 9.5

[smallblock]

I have spent alot of time with this one and I really want it to run its best. It runs OK but seems that it could be better. The last thing I thought it could be was points. The points gap on this was set more like at .15 rather than .20. I could get the gauge in at .20 but had to force it in. Was that to tight? I reset them to .20 so there was very little friction getting the gauge in but was snug. Is this correct or had the previous owner had it right. I mean, if you tried to get the gauge in using no resistance it wouldn't go. It gets good spark now, although I don't have a spark tool as I see so many people use testing these now, but I am getting a good jump at 1/4 inch. Any advise on just how tight this should feel when set correctly. Also what characteristics might this display if they were set to close? One other thing is the plugs, I am running j8c but should I be using a plug with a resistor built into it, like a rj8c or does it even matter....Thank you.

 

[Vic.S]

Re: Points gap question 73 Johnson 9.5

Adjust the points when open at their widest and so that you can feel just a slight drag on the gauge as you draw it between them. If it slides easily with absolutely no resistance they are too wide. If you can feel any more than a slight drag then they are too close.
Snug perhaps a good description!

Points must be scrupulously clean .. not so much as a finger print.

They must also be free of pitting etc before you can adjust them properly.

The gap will not only affect the strength of the spark but also the timing. Too wide will advance the timing and vice versa.

Champion J4C are the recommended plugs. J8C are too hot.

No need to use a resistor plug unless you need to suppress radio interference

 

[F_R]

Re: Points gap question 73 Johnson 9.5

What Vic said is true. They don't call it a "feeler" gauge for nothing. You should barely feel the drag.

Setting the points at .020" is the best you can do without the timing tool. It will get them close, but not necessarily exact. It is WHEN the points open that counts, not how FAR they open. That is what the timing tool does.

Resistor plugs are, well......ok, if you just have to have them. Otherwise they are to be avoided. They do exactly that--resist the spark. Outboards don't have a whole lot of extra spark to throw away through a resistor, especially at cranking speeds where you need it. Want easy starting--don't use resistor plugs

 

[smallblock]

Re: Points gap question 73 Johnson 9.5

Thanks...What do you mean to hot on the j8c's? Could that be my problem right there? Everywhere I look it points to the 8's for this motor,even on Champions website...