1985 15hp Johnson Won't Start

[Ajstanley55]

1985 Johnson 15 HP Died and Won't Start

So earlier today I had the motor humming along at about 3 quarters throttle and then it just kicked out. I tried to restart put no luck after repeated pulls. After I got it home I ran a compression test. I get 90 PSI on each cylinder the same as I always have while the motor ran fine. I tried to check for spark by pulling one of the spark plugs, I believe I get no spark, but it's tough to pull and look at the same time. I also tried to start it with some starting fluid after I reinstalled the spark plug. Also no results. Not even a sputter. I am assuming at this point I have an electrical problem. I believe the kill switch is functional, but uncertain as how to best test. The motor has 2 coil packs, so I would not think that both packs are bad. Scratching my head at the moment. Open to any thoughts. Not too familiar with Johnson's of this age.

 

[Ajstanley55]

Also earlier today I checked the engine grounding wire. Cleaned it and reconnected. I know the block is grounded using a continuity test. I also verified that the kill switch is working using the multi Tester as well. Currently perplexed.

 

[oldboat1]

Probably know this, but the kill switch needs to be held open for the ignition to work (closed switch grounds out the ignition). The switch is held open with the little plastic clip.

 

[Chinewalker]

Did you take the kill switch out of the equation? Black and yellow wire at the plug, remove it and see what you get. Most power pack issues I've had seem to give intermittent spark to one cylinder first. Trigger can cause both to go lights out. Rarely ever see a stator go out suddenly, but I suppose they could.

 

[oldboat1]

^^like Chinewalker says. (I gave you some bad info about the clip/clip and lanyard. That's in later models. Sorry.)

 

[Newyota]

I just was left adrift on the river today on my 1985 Johnson.Running great, then slowed to stop and fish and it idles rough and dies.After attempts and swapping plugs no go.Limped back on the electric motor.No spark when checked.Checked CDI web site and did stator checks.I eventually checked short ground wire at CDI wire to block.No continuity from the connector to other engine grounds.Cleaned things up after removing bolt..Spark again!!Started first pull.Hope this was the entire issue?Hope this helps.