1970 20HP Johnson fuel problems??

First off I would like to say this site is amazing for info. I've been reading for hours lol. However i do have a problem that i havent seen on here and I hoped you guys could help.

I have a 1970 20HP Johnson "20R70E" Model. Used it for a few years then i let it sit in the basement for the last 2. Ran GREAT with no problems after i did some work on it (2 new coils, new impellor, new fuel pump, rebuilt carb). I got it out a week ago and something isn't right now. It starts ok but will not idle down and smokes REAL bad!!
I took the carb off and cleaned everything, put it back together still the same. Started off with low speed 1.5 turns out and while it acts a little different leaner or richer by turning it will not idle or stay running for long unless i hold the throttle and catch it when it tries to die. I noticed there is gas coming out the front of the carb. Why would that be? I've checked (visually through the intake) the reed valves and they seem fine.
I even took the time to check to point to make sure they were still at .020 and yep. i got good spark on both cylinders. Just run out of ideas guys... would another rebuild kit help? any ideas would be GREATLY appreciated. Thanks for your time

Re: 1970 20HP Johnson fuel problems??

Hi roxy. Welcome to iboats. I have a '66 20 hp myself. The gas coming out of the carb is a classic sign that you have a stuck float which is causing the engine to flood. You'll need to take the carb apart one more time and take extra care that the float and float needle are seated properly. I would definitely rebuild the carb if it hasn't been done in a while. You can get a rebuild kit right ehre at iboats for about $20. Here are some handy links. Holler if you get stuck.

http://www.leeroysramblings.com/johnson_E-FD_15_18hp.html

http://www.marineengine.com/parts/johnson-evinrude-parts.php?year=1970&hp=20&model=20R70C

http://www.outboard-boat-motor-repa...hnson 5.5 HP 1954-1964 Carburetor Tune-UP.htm (for a different model, but the basic steps are the same as yours)

Re: 1970 20HP Johnson fuel problems??

Thanks for the reply kfa4303....

Be seating the needle valve and float what do you mean? Level with the carb upside down and 1-1/8" drop?