Re: 1972 Johnson 2hp – low speed and idle problem

[stan-k]

quote Pappy:

While the carb is off you may want to check the reeds and see if they are completely closing and not slightly held open by a critter or whatever.
Sure you got the upper and lower seals oriented correctly? Lip facing the center of the crankshaft?
The fuel level will give very minor changes unless it is drastically off one way or another. I take it the nozzle well gasket is in place?
Float not on upside down? Tab pointing down at the seat?
What happens if you take the needle out another turn or more for testing purposes?

Thanks Pappy. All good suggestions and advice. Yes the reeds are closing well. Actually, now that I’ve had a good look at most the engine components (except for cylinder head), I don’t think this motor has seen that many hours. Just been sitting around in conditions unknown.

In the next couple of days I’ll re-assemble the motor, going over all the points that you’ve suggested. Although the carb is the key suspect in this problem, I’m still leaning towards low compression, so I’ll do another compression test before trying to run the motor again.

I’ll not be able to get back at this for a few days, but I will update you with results.

Thanks again for all your help.