Johnson Won't Start!

[franzM]

Last night, after a wonderful trip on the lake, my 1988 Johnson 90-HP outboard engine would not start. I had to get [towed] to shore by another boat. Embarrassing!<br /><br />Oil was coming out of the [lower unit]. I also noticed that the VRO [primer bulb] was so hard I could not squeeze it any further.<br /><br />What is the problem?<br /><br />The engine worked well up to that point. Power [possibly electrical power from the battery] was going to engine but it would not turn over. Thanks. Frank

 

[kirkland]

Re: Johnson Won't Start!

VRO bulb should be hard as a brick...not good to squeeze it after the inital priming unless you run it completely out of oil...<br /><br />as far as starting...neutral saftey switch..Is it in neutral..<br /><br />You say it would not turn over...was there no action at all when you turned key or did it crank but not start..<br /><br />If it did crank and not start check that lanyard on saftey switch is in palce...

 

[franzM]

Re: Johnson Won't Start!

The engine would turn over but not start.

 

[JB]

Re: Johnson Won't Start!

Go to the Engine FAQs, Franz.<br /><br />"Outboard wont start" will get it narrowed down for you.<br /><br />Good luck.

 

[gmcjohnny]

Re: Johnson Won't Start!

sounds like the kill switch take the red harness plug off but make sure motor is in neutral jump starter solenoid an see if motor starts just remember the only way to shut motor off is to plug harness in or choke it

 

[franzM]

Re: Johnson Won't Start!

I think I may have used gas mixed with oil. Also the gas tanks were left outside (half full) through th winter. I filled the tanks up with this old gas with oil.<br /><br />Would this have caused my problem? What shoul I do?<br /><br />FRANK