1956 Johnson 30 HP RD-18 No Start Help

[Avery93]

I have a 1956 Johnson RD-18 that I can’t seem to get running. I’ve cleaned out the air box, cleaned the carb, and replaced fuel lines. The float should be put in the correct way as well. I have also tried different tanks on it. The glass sight has fuel in it and if I pull the lower needle valve fuel will come out of there as well. However, when I pull the spark plugs they seem to be dry. I’ve held a rag over the plug holes and turned it over and found no fuel. The upper needle is set 1.5 turns out and the lower is set at 1 turn out. Any help is appreciated. Thanks!

 

[Crosbyman]

usually plugged carb....what cleaning did you do ... full take apart or sprayed cleaner ...
top idle chamber needs inspecting

 

[Avery93]

It was a complete disassembly, but I wonder if I missed something.

 

[Avery93]

Does anyone know of any good video tutorials for that year? It always helps to face a little guidance.

 

[racerone]

Does spark jump a gap of 1/4" or more on both leads ?

 

[Avery93]

It works, but not a quarter of an inch.

 

[Avery93]

Sorry, auto correct edited my response. It sparks, but not a quarter of an inch. I wonder if I have 2 problems, fuel flow and spark.

 

[racerone]

If spark does not jump a 1/4" or more the motor will likely have starting issues.----Magneto inspection / repair is something you MUST learn to enjoy an older motor on a budget.----Very simple and many tutorials on you-tube.

 

[Crosbyman]

to properly service your oldy get his book for $20 cheap for 450 pages + of info on all oldies from lare 40s to upper 60s
covers carbs magneto GC etc....

1922-1964 Johnson 302231 Outboard Service Manual

Johnson Outboard Motor Service and Repair Manual # 302231 Tenth Edition covers all Models 1922-1964 .pdf download

watercraftmanuals.com

 

[F_R]

You are barking up the wrong tree, looking for wet plugs. They shouldn't be wet. Wet plugs suggest flooding.

1956 30hp Johnsons have two very common problems. The ignition coils are shot from age unless they have already been replaced. Second common problem is a destroyed powerhead from water intrusion into the crankcase. Check compression before proceeding any further.

 

[Avery93]

There’s approximately 125 pounds of pressure on each cylinder, so the coils will be my next step.

 

[jonesg]

There’s approximately 125 pounds of pressure on each cylinder, so the coils will be my next step.

you have spark, try a bit of gas in the spark plug holes.