Johnson 115

[Nws024]

My boat has been sitting. I have new gas in a separate tank. With key pushed, choke, engine will run. When I release the key It dies. I have not rebuilt these carbs. I want to go crappie fishing. Please help. Thanks in advance.

 

[racerone]

No model # posted so assumtions happen.-----When you push in the key the primer valve opens.----Fuel is pushed into the engine.-----This fuel BYPASSES the carburetors.-----This indicates that carburetors need attention.

 

[Nws024]

i can get model #, sorry. i think it is a 79. I have rebuilt 1 carburetor before, previous engine. is that what i need to do? pull it all the way apart, soak and clean, use new gaskets? or are there any other ways to open it up and get running again.

 

[racerone]

A 79 model does not use the primer.---- But having to use choke indicates carburetors need work.-----Often cleaning needs to be done and no parts needed.----Make sure high speed jet in the bowl is clean.----2 carburetors and total of 4 high speed jets.

 

[F_R]

It just amazes me how people will tear into something without some simple preliminary troubleshooting. While I agree the carbs probably are the culprit, I would verify that first. Look at the bottoms of the carbs. See those hex drain screws? Remove the ones you can access and see what runs out--hopefully gas and not water or crap. While you have them out, look at the inner ends of them. Are they shiny, new looking? They should be. If they are covered with varnish or other crap, then yes you need to clean the carbs.

 

[oldboat1]

Carb rebuilding is part of routine maintenance, particularly for a boat that has been sitting, as the OP says. You might get lucky with some picking and spraying, but you usually won’t see (or resolve) the problem. Full disassembly and complete cleaning saves time and frustration. Drain the carbs after use or after the season to keep fuel varnish from building up.

Start with a parts diagram. Kits or individual parts are readily available: https://www.iboats.com/shop/engine-parts/1979-Johnson-115ML79R-Carburetor-Parts.html . Or touch bases with a local outboard shop or a source like NAPA. Whatever you are comfortable with.