Re: johnson 60hp vro
Oilman..... On your 1988 60hp Johnson, always start with the basic trouble shooting procedure to avoid expensive components replacement errors.<br /><br />Note that a engine in perfect condition will not start properly in a tilted position.<br /><br />First, check the fuel to make sure it's not contaminated (water usually).<br /><br />Second, check the compression which should be in the 100+ psi range and even on all cylinders.<br /><br />Third, with the s/plugs removed, rig up a spark tester whereas you can set a 7/16" gap. The spark should jump that gap with a strong blue lightning like flame.... a real heavy thick snapping spark, not a thin weak one.<br /><br />If you can't rig up a tester, use a proper size philips screwdriver which will fit inside of the wire terminal that's within the rubber s/plug boot, than hold the shank of the screwdriver the approximate 7/16" gap away from the block... NOT 1/8" or 1/4"!<br /><br />If you have a weak, erratic, or non existent spark, disconnect the main RED electrical plug at the engine, then crank the engine by using a small jumper wire from the battery terminal of the starter solenoid to the small 3/8" nut on the solenoid that energizes the electric starter (not the 3/8" ground nut).<br /><br />If you now have the proper spark, in all likelihood the ignition switch is faulty and will require replacing.<br /><br />If the 1st, 2nd and 3rd tests mentioned above check out fine, in all probabilty the carburetors are fouled. If so, the cure would be to remove, clean, and rebuild them.<br /><br />Also..... Although this doesn't appear to be your problem (WITH THE ENGINE NOT RUNNING), check the timer base under the flywheel (spark advance) to make sure that it moves smoothly without sticking at any point throughout its range from idle to the full spark advance point (up against the rubber stop of the full advance stop screw). Spin the prop in order to shift into forward gear properly, then check the timer base as mentioned. Keep us informed.