1971 Johnson 9.5 no spark on 1 wire

joho5

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Aug 14, 2008
Messages
456
My top wire isnt providing any spark. I know this is probably a newbie question, but what should I check first. Also, if something will have to be replaced, more than likely what would it be and is it something I could do? I have done everything else on this motor (carb rebuild, fuel pump rebuild, lower unit seals, and manual recoil work.

another question is that if it needs the ignition parts (coil, points, etc...) is it as simple as just taking the old ones off and reinstalling the new ones? Or do I have to adjust them, and also mess with adjusting the timing? This is entering an area I have no experience with. I was hoping it was easy as pulling the old stuff off and putting on the new stuff.

thanks

Matt
 

F_R

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Jul 7, 2006
Messages
28,226
Re: 1971 Johnson 9.5 no spark on 1 wire

In all probability, it will just be dirty or worn breaker points. At least that is the first thing to check.
You need a puller to get the flywheel off without damage and a torque wrench to tighten the nut to 40-45 ft/lbs when reinstalling it. Don't think you can guess at the torque. Adjust the breaker points to .020" at their widest opening position.
 

joho5

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Aug 14, 2008
Messages
456
Re: 1971 Johnson 9.5 no spark on 1 wire

Can you adjust the points before they are on the motor? See I have never even seen what is below the flywheel on an outboard before other than what is in my manual. So in reality, I dont know what adjusting the breaker points mean. But I do know how to measure a gap, as I have done it with a spark plug.

So, do the coils not go bad very often?

I want to do this myself because I cant stand paying someone $90 an hour for labor.

how do you measure your pounds when tightening a bolt?
 
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