1979 Johnson 55 hp

dan09

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Joined
Sep 22, 2024
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5
I have a 1979 johnson 55 outboard that starts and idles great just can't get it about 2000rpm. I just ordered the shop Manual to make sure everything is adjusted properly. I did notice the last owner was running the wrong fuel to oil ration 32:1 when it should be 50:1. Is there anything I can try until I get the shop manual in. Compression was about 150 on both cylinders and fuel pump was just replaced.
 

racerone

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Joined
Dec 28, 2013
Messages
37,818
They run surprisingly well on 1 cylinder.----Does spark jump a gap of at least 3/8" on both leads ?
 

dan09

Recruit
Joined
Sep 22, 2024
Messages
5
They run surprisingly well on 1 cylinder.----Does spark jump a gap of at least 3/8" on both leads ?
Haven't checked spark plugs yet. Previous owner said they just changed them. I'll look into that. How would I check to see if it's jumping the gap on both leads?
 

3rdMarDiv

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
May 27, 2013
Messages
84
Racerone put the same question to me and I picked up Lisle 20700 Coil-On tester that allows for testing spark and coil strength. Comes with instruction and you can YouTube it. Quality piece of equipment 17 dollars on Amazon.

This is set at just over 3/8"
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