Re: How to fix the timing on a 1964 Johnson 40 hp
Exactly what do you mean by saying "the timing's off"?
The timing is set by the flywheel key aligning the flywheel with the crankshaft. If the flywheel key IS NOT sheared and the flywheel nut is torqued to 105 foot pounds, the engine IS IN time.
If the flywheel key IS SHEARED, the engine is out of time.
If you're speaking of setting the point gap, read on.
(Point Setting Of Magneto Models)
(J. Reeves)
Set the points as follows. Have the flywheel key aligned with the fiber rubbing portion of the ignition points. Adjust the gap so that a .020 gauge will pass thru but a .022 will not. Should there be any question of the points being dirty (touching the contact with your finger would cause them to be dirty), clean them with a small brush and acetone or lacquer thinner.