1964 Johnson 18hp no spark to top cylinder.

Joined
Mar 16, 2011
Messages
24
I recently discovered that I am not getting any spark to my top cylinder. So I am trying to figure out how many of the ignition componets I need to replace. I was thinking at first the coil, contacts, and points. Should I replace the wires also, if yes what all do I need to order?
 

JB

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Mar 25, 2001
Messages
45,907
Re: 1964 Johnson 18hp no spark to top cylinder.

You probably have a bad coil on that cylinder, Nate.

I hate replacing stuff just to find out if it needs replacing, l but I think I would replace both coils. They tend to go after 40-50 years.

Do that and test her before you start replacing stuff that may not need replacing.

Good luck. :)
 
Joined
Mar 16, 2011
Messages
24
Re: 1964 Johnson 18hp no spark to top cylinder.

OK I finally had time to replace the coil to the top cylinder and still no spark. I'm getting excellent spark to the bottom cylinder. Should I replace the plug wires next?? Also what wires should I order? Thanks
 

blimp

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Sep 30, 2009
Messages
237
Re: 1964 Johnson 18hp no spark to top cylinder.

try swapping components from the working cyl to the one that is not getting spark, it'll help troubleshoot without needlessly replacing parts.
 

lindy46

Captain
Joined
Nov 27, 2008
Messages
3,886
Re: 1964 Johnson 18hp no spark to top cylinder.

If this were a new motor to me (no history) and I wanted to have a reliable runner, I would replace all the ignition components. Then I could rest assured I wouldn't have any problems with it. And all those components can be replaced for about $75-80. A cheap price for peace of mind.
 
Top