90 Johnson GT 175 hard starting

[harleyguy80]

Just bought boat from someone i know who was tired of messing with it for 2500.00. The problem i'm having is that when the engine is started for the first time in a couple of days it takes forever to get it to run, usually takes two people, one to hold throttle open just slightly and the other working key. Once you have it started up, runs fine and starts fine all day untill next time out. Not having a cold start warm up throttle is new to me all my other boats always had them. I'm new to this VRO system and the primer choke. Any suggestions on where to start troubleshooting would be very greatly appreciated. Still waiting on service manual that i ordered.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: 90 Johnson GT 175 hard starting

sound like you have a aftermarket control. should have a button in center of the handle, bushing the button should allow you to move throttle forward without going into gear (fast idle) or you pull the top of the handle inboard, and move forward. there are 2 general types. pushing you key in activates the primer solenoid, to choke the motor.

 

[emdsapmgr]

Re: 90 Johnson GT 175 hard starting

When first starting after sitting a few days, prime the fuel hose bulb till it gets hard. This will pressureize and fill the fuel system. Slightly open the carb throats, turn and push the key in while starting. Depressing the key will activate the fuel primer solenoid-squirting extra fuel in the carbs for cold starting. If it is still hard to start, check the fuel primer and insure that it is working. Pull one of the small primer hoses of the top of the top carb and depress the key. A small amount of fuel should come of the the hose. If it does, reconnect the hose. Your year should have the cold start power pack, which will temporarily advance the ignition idle timing till it senses that the engine is warmed up. A nice feature. That engine has a fuel recirculation system. If the valves on this system do not function properly or if the 6 hoses are cracked and leaking, it can contribute to hard starting and uneven idling characteristics.