New Owner! Advice needed...

[patronman1]

Just bought for nothing a Carolina Skiff J14, 1969 Johnson 40HP Electramatic. I am 50 years old and have been looking on this forum for about two weeks. I have NEVER owned a boat with a motor and have learned quite a few things here already. I know it requires Type C Lube for the lower unit and have had to order online. Also the gas/oil is 50:1 ratio. The previous owner said this boat was running last year....he seems honest enough. I try just tried to turn it with an old trolling motor battery and it does spin but the battery is old and am out today to buy a new one.
My questions to all of you is....
What do I need to do to get this thing just to crank so I can fiddle with it. I know this is going to be a life long project, but it appears that these motors seem to last forever.

Thanks for any advice to get started.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: New Owner! Advice needed...

Spin and crank mean the same thing. To get it to "run" is very different. You need spark, fresh fuel, clean carburetors, good plugs, and a good battery.

1) Squeeze the primer bulb until firm.
2 Push in on the key to activate the choke while cranking the engine.
3) When the engine fires, you may need to bump the key a time or two (extra shot of fuel) until it warms up.
4) Do not run the engine unless it is in the water or you have muffs attached and a source of cooling water.

 

[patronman1]

Re: New Owner! Advice needed...

Spin and crank mean the same thing. To get it to "run" is very different. You need spark, fresh fuel, clean carburetors, good plugs, and a good battery.

1) Squeeze the primer bulb until firm.
2 Push in on the key to activate the choke while cranking the engine.
3) When the engine fires, you may need to bump the key a time or two (extra shot of fuel) until it warms up.
4) Do not run the engine unless it is in the water or you have muffs attached and a source of cooling water.

Thanks all of the above done yesterday.
One thing,
This motor does not have a choke on the key housing. I tried that and it does not work.
On the front of the motor is a small door that accesses the choke... It Has 3 settings, back to front ....
Choke
Auto choke
Full choke
Should I try to start at full choke??

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: New Owner! Advice needed...

I think I would reconsider that motor on that boat. It will be out of control fast, especially for a new boater. If you can't get that 40 to fire right up, rather than spend time and money on it, replace it with a 25. the carolina skiff is a great boat.