1983 15 hp Johnson slow speed needle issue

I'm attempting a carb rebuild for the first time. After cleaning the carb I began to reassemble it using new kit parts. When attempting to re install the idle speed needle through the new bushing I found it almost impossible to screw the needle in through the bushing. By itself the needle screw in easily. After burning a hole in my thumb with repeated attempts to install it I finally advanced it in using pliers to grip the needle. I feel like any adjustments to the needle using the idle speed adjustment knob will be impossible. I left the needle partially unscrewed so I wouldn't bottom out. Given the force needed to advance the needle, I wouldn't have been able to tell when it" lightly" bottoms out as recommended. What the heck went wrong here? The new bushing appeared the same as the removed one. The removed bushing had obvious screw pattern carved in it from the prior installation. Should the needle easily thread through the new bushing with much less effort? Thanks for any info / advice, - Joe

Re: 1983 15 hp Johnson slow speed needle issue

If that bushing is made of plastic and is "key hole" shaped, it is very difficult to thread the needle valve through it. What I've done in the past is, run a tap through the bushing first to break in the new threads. Even by doing that, the needle valve will work harder that you'd like but, it will work easier.

Re: 1983 15 hp Johnson slow speed needle issue

Well that makes me feel a little better. I will keep that in mind for future rebuilds. I say "future" hoping that this attempt works and needle wasn't damaged or crossthreaded. :^) I will found out tonight when I put the carb back on and fire it up. I guess I will carefully attempt to screw in until it bottoms out then back out 3/4 turn for starting.