1987 Johnson 140 VRO stalls when i put in gear in the water

racerone

Supreme Mariner
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Dec 28, 2013
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37,836
The 2 steps to start with.-----Compression test.-----Post the values.-----Then a spark check.-----Does spark jump a gap of 7/16" on a test device ?-----How did the motor run for you last season ?-----Is oil injection in service ?----Was it tested for output ?------Or mixing at 50:1 in your tank ?
 

ellishe1

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Apr 1, 2022
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The 2 steps to start with.-----Compression test.-----Post the values.-----Then a spark check.-----Does spark jump a gap of 7/16" on a test device ?-----How did the motor run for you last season ?-----Is oil injection in service ?----Was it tested for output ?------Or mixing at 50:1 in your tank ?
Thanks for responding, I bought the boat as is it ran on muffs, the guy I bought it from was up front and told me it stalls under load. I checked compression, port side 120ish, starboard side 115ish, checked spark with inline tester just looking for spark. Not sure on motor function last time he took it out but he is seasonal so I'm going to say last year. The fuel is being premix and oil pump is bypaased.
 

racerone

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Dec 28, 2013
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Do you have spark on all 4 leads that jumps a gap of 7/16" on a test device, yes or no ?
 

ellishe1

Cadet
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Apr 1, 2022
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Idk I don't have a spark tester that shows me the spark jump distance? I guess I could test them one at a time with a pair of insulating needle nose?
 

oldboat1

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Buy (or exchange for) one of these at an auto parts store: xLIS50850_1200Wx1200H.jpg.pagespeed.ic.DpYWD8n9Ep.jpg
 
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racerone

Supreme Mariner
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Dec 28, 2013
Messages
37,836
I can not see , hear or feel your motor.------It is up to you to answer the questions / do the trouble shooting.------To answer with ---" I don't have a tester "---- is nonsense and does not help you in any way.----So get a tester or run to your local boat repair shop.----Yes I can be blunt sometimes.
 

CaptnKingfisher

Petty Officer 1st Class
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May 14, 2017
Messages
259
Water in fuel can cause this. I'd start by siphoning some gas out the tank and inspecting it in a clear glass jar. If fuel is good we can move onto other possibilities
 

ellishe1

Cadet
Joined
Apr 1, 2022
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10
Okay I'll check, and get back.
Okay update, went to tge ramp today to test the johnson 140, and it did fine so I guess cleaning tge carbs and I found a broken spark plug wire and had a spair, all is good thanks for your help. Now to start the boat restoration. I'll post updates. I think I got a good deal at $2000.
 

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