rebuild ideas

Hay guy
I have a old 1977 85hp johnson javelin and its lacking power. I want to give this old beast a new lease in life.
I want to know what are the things i should do can anyone give me a list. Like carby kit, new coils, powerpack stuff like that. I have a little idea on what to do. But a list from someone on the stuff i should change and do would be great.
Thanks

Re: rebuild ideas

First of all, make sure that engine has good compression. No point in putting any $ into it if the compression is low-unless you are going for a complete ovehaul. Look for compression in the 120-125 lbs range on all 4 cyls. Keep in mind that your engine is a 92 cubic inch small bore model. The 1977 115/140 engines are 99.6 cubic inch blocks.

Re: rebuild ideas

What evidence do you have that it needs anything done, Mate? "Lacking power" tells me nothing. How did you determine that?

Keep in mind the wrench's motto, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it."

Re: rebuild ideas

Evidence would be. The take off speed is crap. Cant pull up a ski. And the motor has never been touch. And i just feel after 34 years of life it could do withh some work.
But i like your moto.
Tim

Re: rebuild ideas

Must have changed the impeller?

Start with emdsapmgrs advice and get some compression readings. Let us know what you find.

You will then need to check spark on all cylinders. Replacing a coil/powerpack on a cylinder that is firing fine will do nothing for you other than lighten your wallet.

If she is not running on all cylinders, it is time to find out why.

Routine maintainence that should be performed is the water pump(roughly 3 to 5 years), gearcase oil (at least yearly, depending on use), plugs (I put fresh ones in every year, as they are cheap and I boat alot, but that is up to you), and Im sure if that carb hasnt been cleaned/rebuilt in a few years it definately couldnt hurt.

Let us know what you find.