1956 7.5 Johnson runs rough

Bobstein

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Joined
Apr 29, 2012
Messages
6
I just got a 1956 7.5 Johnson motor running after sitting for 20 years. There is a factory hole about 3/8" on the side of the block that you can hear exhaust noise coming from and occasionally backfires or coughs through it. I can plug the hole with my finger and the motor will smooth out and rev up and sounds really good, also with the hole plugged the motor will idle down and run smooth, it seams like a vacuum leak. there are no threads for a bolt, is there a plug that is supposed to be there IMG_1262.jpg
 

Bobstein

Cadet
Joined
Apr 29, 2012
Messages
6
Re: 1956 7.5 Johnson runs rough

I see that plug on my motor. my hole is on the opposite side and appears to go into the crankcase also

I just inspected my coils and ordered 2 new ones may have something to do with running intermittently bad.
 

1946Zephyr

Vice Admiral
Joined
Oct 21, 2008
Messages
5,556
Re: 1956 7.5 Johnson runs rough

That is the oil reservoir welch plug. I would say that it needs to be there, as you found out to make it run better with it plugged off. It's odd that it would disappear like that.

Yes, a nice working ignition system will do wonders as far as making it run good.
 

nwcove

Admiral
Joined
May 16, 2011
Messages
6,293
Re: 1956 7.5 Johnson runs rough

on page 6 of the link, you will see part #44, and the dotted line goes to the other side of the block, just where your pick is showing.
 

SeaKaye12

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
Jul 3, 2005
Messages
1,116
Re: 1956 7.5 Johnson runs rough

Oil Reservoir? Boy; you learn something every day here! I've never heard that term before on a 2 stroke. I've got one of those engines...I'll take a look and make sure my plug hasn't disappeared as well...

Chuck
 

Bobstein

Cadet
Joined
Apr 29, 2012
Messages
6
Re: 1956 7.5 Johnson runs rough

Great news, I plugged the hole and the motor runs like it was brand new. Thank you
Bob
 
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