1985 50 HP Johnson Motor will not idle

Recently purchased a 1985 50 hp Johnson boat motor. The motor will crank but will not idle. We can increase the speed on the idler lever, but
the speed will increase on its own. We immediately move the idler lever back to the home position. The previous owner stated the carbs were
rebuilt. We have been told that the carbs are preset and there are no adjustments that can be made as far as the timing is concerned. When
we could not get the motor to idle, we decided to put new carb kits and new plugs in ourselves. Our efforts have not been successful. In order
to operate the boat we have to immediately put it in gear as we mover the idler lever in its home position. Sea foam and new gas has been
used in the motor since we purchased it. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. We want to hear this motor run and sound like a
Johnson motor should sound.

Re: 1985 50 HP Johnson Motor will not idle

I would start by checking the compression and spark. Easy and free to do.

Re: 1985 50 HP Johnson Motor will not idle

Thanks for reply: Checking compression and spark. The compression is holding around 150-155.
Haven't checked spark yet. Adjusted the butterfly in carbs. Tried the motor out in river and when
it cranked it ran wide open. We immediately cut it off. Did some more adjustments, still is not
running like a Johnson should. We are debating if we are going to keep it or not. Onlly had the
boat for two weeks. Highly aggravated.......