Re: Johnson 3hp what model and year
when you say there was "nothing" -- does that mean the motor didn't fire, wouldn't pop? I agree with nwcove's, post, but you can go a little further with what you have now. Assuming the motor isn't firing in the normal way, I think you can focus on fuel right now rather than spark (can get a spark tester in the meantime). You need to be sure the gas and oil are fresh (gas especially), and get the right mix. After '63, you can use 50:1. If using the integral tank, make sure the valve is open and working, the air vent in the cap open, and fuel getting to the carb. Don't mess with the needle settings yet OR set the high speed needle to 3/4 open (counterclockwise) from seating, and 1 to 1/2 turns open for the low speed needle. If your model has a high speed needle adjustment, it will be the bottom needle, and top needle for low speed. Then try the motor in a tank/barrel. Initially, pull out the choke. If it doesn't fire on full choke, push the choke back in and give it three or four more pulls. If still nothing, check again to see if there is gas in the carb mouth.
object is to just getting it to run at this point, then making adjustments.
