1966 Johnson Super Sea Horse forward gear problem

[coolpapagwl]

I inherited this boat and motor last year. We have had it in the water several times with the only problem being that it was slow to go into forward gear. Yesterday it would engage in forward, but just stay at a idle speed when you increase the throttle. The motor responds correctly, but it still stays at a idle speed. Reverse works perfectly.<br /><br />We have checked to make sure that it is getting power to the lower unit from the connections at the back of the motor. Both the forward, and reverse wire connections recieve power when put into the correct gear.<br /><br />Out of the water we have engaged the forward gear without the motor running, and turning the prop by hand works the same manually for both forward and reverse so everything seems fine.<br /><br />Any ideas will be greatly appreciated. Not sure what to check next.

 

[Paul Moir]

Re: 1966 Johnson Super Sea Horse forward gear problem

Evening, coolpapagwl. I take it this is your '66 40hp we're talking about.<br /><br />Are you certain that the prop isn't spun? Mark the hub (where the prop-nut goes) against the body (where the fins attach) with and indelible marker and run the engine. If the marks don't line up after the run, the prop's hub is spun. A prop shop may be able to repair the hub. <br />Also, I know your propeller is pin-drive -- those props have rubber hubs too.<br />Secondly, are you absolutely certain you have OMC (I guess Bomb now) "Premium Blend" gearcase lube in the gearcase and no others? Electric shifts require this fluid.<br /><br />I sure hope the problem is something simple. I hear those electric shifts can be expensive to fix.<br /><br />Good luck!