1984 70hp evinrude slow to start

[Freeball]

When cold the motor takes a long time to fire up. I've been turning it over for around 20sec with a 60sec break (don't want to o/heat the starter) and takes 6 or so goes to fire up. Once its warm there's no probs. Engine has had a piston overhaul and i'm running the mixture slightly richer than 50:1 but there is no sign of spark plug fouling. What can i do to get that 'first start' perfomance.

[DJ]

Use this starting procedure.

http://forums.iboats.com/engine-frequently-asked-questions-faq/johnson-evinrude-cold-start-procedures-225510.html

[tedious]

Assuming you are priming the engine by pushing in the key, your primer solenoid may not be working. It looks like the 84s did not have the manual start bypass on the primer, but if yours does have it (red lever on the primer solenoid) then try priming manually - turn the red lever 1/4 turn to where it is at right angles to the solenoid, give one pump on the fuel line bulb, and turn the red lever back.

If you don't have it, get a service manual and check the operation of the primer solenoid - or just replace it.

Tim

[Freeball]

Awesome advice guys, I was hoping it was something as simple as this. My '84 does have the manual bypass primer and i've identified the primer solenoid as the problem. Thanks for the tips!!

[tashasdaddy]

check the wiring connection to it. i have had them corrode, and primer not work.

[Freeball]

will do tashasdaddy, and thanks again!!