How do I check kill switch?

hfdad

Cadet
Joined
May 30, 2022
Messages
15
My 2002 Johnson outboard won't start, I have a great looking spark but when I try to start it the starter spins fly wheel fast but no sign of firing. Even spraying starting fluid into plug holes there is no attempt of starting. I was wondering how I could disconnect the kill switch to eliminate that possible cause of not starting. It's a

2002 Johnson J50PLSNF 50hp Outboard Motor​

 

ThomW

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Aug 8, 2016
Messages
615
I am not certain, but I believe if your kill switch was the issue, the motor would not be turning the starter or spinning the flywheel....
 

Harkonnen

Seaman
Joined
Mar 29, 2022
Messages
58
I have a great looking spark

You wouldn't have had spark if kill switch were a problem. Did it suddenly happen, or was it sitting a while? How's compression?

Try spraying starting fluid down carb throats and giving it a crank.
 

ThomW

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Aug 8, 2016
Messages
615
I'd avoid using starting fluid on your 2-stroke motor, not good for them. Especially spraying in the plug holes. You could try a spray in the intake for carb, but again...try not using starting fluid if you can.

How are you testing the spark?

Do you have compression?

Is gas getting to the carb? If you have good spark, are getting gas to the carbs, and have compression...you should have combustion.

Follow the gas from the tank to the carb and make sure its getting there. If it's turning over and just not starting, I do not think a kill switch is your issue.
 

Chris1956

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 25, 2004
Messages
27,854
If she won't fire with ether, you have no spark. If you have spark, and still no fire, the timing must be way off.

I would recommend you find top dead center on the top cylinder and observe the timing marks. They should indicate TDC, or real near to it.

I am not sure if flywheel can slip on that model, but it sounds like something to check.
 

racerone

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Dec 28, 2013
Messages
37,835
A sheared flywheel key will still show good spark.----But at the wrong time.----And no you can not find a sheared key with a timing light.----Pull flywheel or check timing pointer with #1 piston at TDC
 
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