1996 Johnson 50hp carb questions

WAB

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I have a 1996 Johnson 50hp (2cyl) and need to rebuild the carbs in it and I might as well replace the reeds also. <br />My questions is: Did the mid-80's 50hp motors have the same carbs as the mid 90's ones? There are some CHEAP carb setups on eBay that have been rebuilt already that look just like mine, but are off of an 80's motor. Will they work on mine?<br /><br />Also, where is a good cheap place to get the reeds from?<br /><br />Thanks! :cool:
 

R.Johnson

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Re: 1996 Johnson 50hp carb questions

There really should be no reason to replace the reed's, nor the carb's for that matter. You can by a carb kit for under $20, and the replacement is very simple, and straight forward on your engine. Just get a manual.
 

WAB

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Re: 1996 Johnson 50hp carb questions

I was only buying the compete carbs if the bidding stayed low on those eBay carbs. I can get the whole setup for less than the rebuilt kits and a manual. <br />carburator assembly Ebay Item number: 4594181498 <br /><br />Any idea if these fit my 1996 motor?
 

MCM

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Re: 1996 Johnson 50hp carb questions

That carb settup doesn't say anything about being rebuilt, recently or otherwise. It also doesn't say what year motor it did come off of.<br /><br />Here's the carb, Ebay<br /><br /> EDIT: By the way Welcome to the forum WAB :)
 

WAB

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Re: 1996 Johnson 50hp carb questions

That was one I was watching because it said it was off a running motor so I figured it might be ok. Here is another I was watching that claims to be freshly rebuilt: Ebay # 4594758907 <br />Here's the other set with a new rebuild kit in them already. They are off an 82 50hp Johnson. The flame arrester looks the same as mine, but maybe the carb spacing is different or something? Know if these will fit my motor? <br /><br />I'm trying to get the motor fixed for my dad for christmas. Last winter, I fogged it and put stabil in the gas and it was not run any over this past summer. Now it does not want to start now even with fresh gas. I pretty sure the carb is just not pulling fuel. I built a couple of high performance motor for my jetskis, so I am somewhat mechanically inclined. But just don't know jack about OB motors....<br /><br />Thanks for the welcome!
 

MCM

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Re: 1996 Johnson 50hp carb questions

First thing to do before throwing parts at it, which can become expensive, is troubleshoot the motor. First is check the spark, it should be strong, blue and snappy and jump about a 1/2" on all cylinders any thing less requires further looking at. If the spark checks out ok then its time to look at the fuel system.
 

WAB

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Re: 1996 Johnson 50hp carb questions

Ok, I'll do that over the weeknd and report back here with my findings on Monday. <br /><br />Thanks
 

MCM

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Re: 1996 Johnson 50hp carb questions

Great, Good Luck ;)
 

MCM

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Re: 1996 Johnson 50hp carb questions

Just a note, you should check the spark with the plugs in the motor using a spark tester, they can be bought fairly cheaply at any auto parts strore.
 

WAB

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Re: 1996 Johnson 50hp carb questions

So, I can't/should't ground them on a bolt head with them in the plug boot to check the spark? That's what I have always done with the jetskis.
 

MCM

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Re: 1996 Johnson 50hp carb questions

That would work, but there are circumstances where you will get good spark w/plugs removed and insufficient spark when installed, when there removed the engine will crank faster because it isn't fighting the compression. It has to do with whether the motor is generating enough crranking voltage to provide the proper amount of spark.
 

R.Johnson

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Re: 1996 Johnson 50hp carb questions

Read my origanal post! Don't go there. MCM: What is your experience with outboard engine's?
 

MCM

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Re: 1996 Johnson 50hp carb questions

My original suggestion is test with a spark tester with plugs installed, is that wrong?
 

R.Johnson

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Re: 1996 Johnson 50hp carb questions

What is your experience with outboard engines?
 

MCM

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Re: 1996 Johnson 50hp carb questions

I throw carb kits at every problem. :rolleyes:
 

dafox99

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Re: 1996 Johnson 50hp carb questions

Well, moving right along, I don't see anything wrong with checking for spark first .. and a spark tester set at the proper gap for the motor is a good method. I think 3/8 should be OK, but the book will specify. I'm not certain what you are concerned about, R.Johnson, unless it is too wide of a gap on the tester as some CD ignitions can blow in trying to fire into a high voltage open circuit (too wide of gap, or no plug at all). I don't think that applies to this particular pack, but if so, just make sure the gap is set appropriately on the tester.<br /><br />I also think MCM is has a good point about leaving the plugs in in case you have a low battery as it will crank slower under compression, and will lower your voltage. In my experience, close gaps (like .040) can fire when the plug is set on the block, but may not fire under compression. <br /><br />If no spark, I'd tackle that before rebuilding carbs. One variable at a time is about all I can handle. Good luck!
 
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