1973 johnson 65 hP

I am new to boating so I hope this is a quick fix.
The motor starts up fine with the muffs on it,but when I get in the water it is hard to start and when it does
start it does not want to idle. If it stays running I can put it in forward and it will run great at low speed and
high speed.
I changed all of the coils (cracked) and plugs and the power pack before I ever put it on the water.
Like I said running slow it runs good and if I give it full throttle it runs fast and smooth and then when I cut it
off I have to choke it and give it full throttle with the warm up lever in order to start it.
I would be thankful for any help.
Weasle,

Re: 1973 johnson 65 hP

Hard starting when in the water is usually as follows:

(Engine Won't Start or Hard Starting In Water)
(Joe Reeves)

The Evinrude and Johnson engines, starting in 1973, have what is called Magneto Capacitance Discharge ignition, self contained, not dependent on battery voltage. The engine must turn over at least 300 rpms in order for the flywheel magnets rotating past the stator ignition generating coils to supply approximately 300v AC to the powerpack(s), which in turn is needed to supply power to the coils etc etc (spark).

In the water, exhaust back pressure is encountered due to the fact that the exhaust housing (housing between the powerhead and the lower unit) is filled with water. This would drag down the needed rpms, affecting ignition.

Normally the clue to this type problem is that the engine starts fine on a flushette (hose), but is very difficult to start when in the water.

Should this be the case, check the battery, clean and tighten all conections (use a wrench or pliers, not your fingers). Any cable that gets overly warm or hot indicates either a loose, or tight but dirty, or internally corroded cable. And of course check the starter itself.

The problem you encounter after getting the engine started is usually caused by fouled carburetors. If so, clean and rebuild them.

Re: 1973 johnson 65 hP

Thanks for the info,
I will have the carbs cleaned and I will check on all of the wiring.