Wont run in the water

[wannagetrdone]

I have a 1973 Johnson 65hp outboard. I've revived it from a 3yr nap. I've done all the basic maintenance changed impeller, rebuilt carbs and synced them. Lower unit flush and new fluid. The thing runs like a top either in a barrel or with the muffs on but if I take it to the lake it won't start in the water. It will crank and crank but no start. And suggestions. Compression is at 120psi per cylinder

 

[Daviet]

Re: Wont run in the water

If it runs in a barrel, you would think it would run in the lake. What is your starting procedure?

 

[wannagetrdone]

Re: Wont run in the water

I drop her in the lake. Have choke set on automatic. flip choke switch and turn key. She turns over but doesnt fire. If i do this same procedure in the barrel or on muffs it ll turn over a couple times and she bust right off. Is there something in the lower unit that when its in that large a volume of water that would restrict the exhaust so much that it doesnt start.

 

[Daviet]

Re: Wont run in the water

There is backpressure on the exhaust system, but it should be the same in a barrel as long as the water level is up to the proper level.
Are you using the cold start lever to advance the RPM when it's cold?

 

[wannagetrdone]

Re: Wont run in the water

I have used it and tried to use it in the while in the lake. Its not a carb problem or firing prob I dont think. Ive shot carb cleaner into carbs trying to get it to fire and no change. I even had my wife in my truck wait til i have the boat running on the ramp and back me into the water but as soon as i pull the throttle down it dies and wont start get it out of the water it will fire right back up. For curiosity what is the proper level to back it into the lake?

 

[belairbrian]

Re: Wont run in the water

Personally I back in till the boat is floating. Eliminates any excess tilt to the motor caused by the ramp.

I ws always taught to keep the motor level when starting.

 

[jbcurt00]

Re: Wont run in the water

I have used it and tried to use it in the while in the lake. Its not a carb problem or firing prob I dont think. Ive shot carb cleaner into carbs trying to get it to fire and no change. I even had my wife in my truck wait til i have the boat running on the ramp and back me into the water but as soon as i pull the throttle down it dies and wont start get it out of the water it will fire right back up. For curiosity what is the proper level to back it into the lake?

Be careful using carb cleaner and starting fluid on mixed gas 2cycle OB motors.... Mixed gas in a squirt bottle is much safer for the motor... as suggested here, and on the iboats forums

Seafoam can be used poured in with the 2cycle oil & gas, and can be sprayed into the carb, and thru the spark plug holes...

But for sure not carb cleaner and starting fluid on a running motor.