What rpm is good idling ?

johnson426

Seaman
Joined
May 11, 2010
Messages
71
hey guys I have a 1986 90hp johnson outboard and I was wondering what rpm is good for idiling ? currently its idiling around 1000 rpm
 

mamm7215

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Apr 28, 2010
Messages
184
Re: What rpm is good idling ?

1000 rpm out of water on muffs is correct, boat in water should be about 600 rpm
 

johnson426

Seaman
Joined
May 11, 2010
Messages
71
Re: What rpm is good idling ?

As of right now my boat idles at 1100 in water, should I adjust to 600 ? will it be too low ?
 

5150abf

Vice Admiral
Joined
Aug 12, 2007
Messages
5,808
Re: What rpm is good idling ?

Get it as low as you can and not have it stall, the slower it is going when you shift the easier it is on your lower unit, banging into gear puts a really bad shock load on the clutch dog and gears, they will last alot longer if you lower the idle speed.
 

Dhadley

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Feb 4, 2001
Messages
16,978
Re: What rpm is good idling ?

If the motor is running properly and is basically healthy it should idle at 650 rpm in forward in the water.
 
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