TIMING QUESTION - 03' JOHNSON V4 115hp?

srssrs

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Aug 7, 2007
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What is the best way to check my ignition timing as I have adjusted slightly the settings on the top of my flywheel housing? (I should have left these alone or at least marked them before moving very slightly). There is a small black plastic piece marked low and another plastic pointer. Each can be set independently by loosening one screw on the top of the flywheel housing that holds these together tightly in place. They can be adjusted from left to right and there is an indicator of + and -.

Do I need to use a timing light or is there a recommended method for initially setting?

Thank you again for all responses to my posts - you guys are great.

Steve in FL
 

F_R

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Re: TIMING QUESTION - 03' JOHNSON V4 115hp?

You need a manual. Seriously. The pointers must be set correctly or all else is in vain.
 

srssrs

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Re: TIMING QUESTION - 03' JOHNSON V4 115hp?

OK - I have been searching locally for a manual as well as on this site. No luck so far.

Does anyone here have one for this motor? If so, can you copy & send the procedure or settings to me?

Thanks.....
 

srssrs

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Re: TIMING QUESTION - 03' JOHNSON V4 115hp?

Can someone help? Thanks....

Steve
 

reeldutch

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Re: TIMING QUESTION - 03' JOHNSON V4 115hp?

why did you start messing with the timing?

you wil need a optical analyzer for these motors.
or set the timing with a timing light.
wot - 18*

you have to set it with the motor running at wot. if you use a timing light. not recomended for optical ignition.

the best way to do it is with a analyzer.
more acurate and reliable.
make sure you set the pointer at tdc before seting the timing.

get the manual first.
messing with the timing could lead to engine damage, loosing power.

why did you change it?
is there someting else wrong?
 

srssrs

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Re: TIMING QUESTION - 03' JOHNSON V4 115hp?

This thread originally started with a fuel problem. The engine had not been run for some months. After pulling all 4 carbs, thoroughly cleaning the idle pick-up tubes (twice), the engine now runs fine.

Unfortunately during the initial troubleshooting process I changed the timing very slightly trying to get the engine to idle properly. This was a rookie mistake & had I to do it over again, I would not have touched it or at least would have marked the pointers before moving.

I went to a reputable local outboard mechanic today & he is scheduled to set it properly in the morning, although he did mention the use of a timing light. Should I be concerned? I have had the common sense not to run this engine until having the timing reset.

Thanks for your reply.....
 

Dhadley

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Feb 4, 2001
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16,978
Re: TIMING QUESTION - 03' JOHNSON V4 115hp?

You can set it with a timing light but it's much simpler to set it with the timing box. It doesn't have to be in the water or even running. Very simple.
 

srssrs

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Aug 7, 2007
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Re: TIMING QUESTION - 03' JOHNSON V4 115hp?

Is a timing box the analyzer that was referred to in a previous post by reeldutch?

Could you describe the procedure? Thanks....

Steve
 
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