Low rpms in reverse for 83 Johnson 70hp

[Hitechman94]

Hello everyone, I have a 1983 Johnson 70Hp on a pontoon boat that runs great on top end. I have a hesitation between idle and mid-throttle that I have to work through slowly or it will die. But, the biggest issue is that in reverse I can't get rpms to go above idle? Any ideas? Is it simply a cable adjustment at the carbs? I am amazed because it seems to reach full rpms in forward gear but, only idle in reverse. I've tried to do some minor cabling adjusting.

In reverse, I don't have enough power to pull myself off the bank at our local lake. It also makes for interesting trailer loading since I can't use reverse effectively to help brake as I am coming to the ramp to pull out of the water.

Thanks, Kevin

 

[The-Machinist]

Re: Low rpms in reverse for 83 Johnson 70hp

It may be an issue with the forward controlls. There is the possibility that you have a severely worn cam in the controlls. But, if not you may be able to adjust it out. When you have it in full reverse are the throttle plates opening at all? Other than that, I would suggest pulling and cleaning/rebuilding the carbs. That should help the mid range dying problem

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Low rpms in reverse for 83 Johnson 70hp

i agree with carbs cleaning and rebuild, for the mid range problem. and a link n sinc. i had an 1988 88spl, never had much reverse either.