1988 88 Johnson SPL hot start problem

[Blake0912]

I have a 1988 Johnson SPL 88hp that runs very strong and will start on the first crank when cold. But after i run the motor for a while then turn it off and let it set for a bit, for instance while fishing for a few minuets. The motor will not start it just keeps cranking until you let it set for about 10-15 mins then it will fire back up. i imagine this would be called a hot start problem? The ignition coils have small cracks in them i imagine from dry rot, could this contribute to this problem? Ive only owned the boat for two months and had it out twice before the boating season ended. And i have replaced the old spark plugs with new NGKs. If any of you guys could help me with this problem i would appreciate it.

 

[James R]

Re: 1988 88 Johnson SPL hot start problem

The coils could well be the problem but you will need to check the sparks when the failure occurs.
The plugs could also be the problem. Some motors wont restart hot with incompatible plugs. The NGKs may not be suitable.
I have just recently refurbed an 88SPL and fitted Champion plugs. No problems.

 

[boobie]

Re: 1988 88 Johnson SPL hot start problem

The best thing to do is get an adjustable open air gap spark tester (Autozone-Napa) for around $8.00, set the gap to 7/16" and check your spark when the prob occurs. I can't see where you'd have 4 coils failing at the same time but would think it could be another ignition component. I've seen a lot of surface cracks on coils and they still worked.

 

[stewfish1818]

Re: 1988 88 Johnson SPL hot start problem

I had the same problem. I found it to be, wait for it....

Ok first, I was flooding my plugs in essence becuase a little part wasn't working well.

PART #10 in link below. Your dealer can find it even though it's not listed for purchase here. They are very universal for VROs. It's a warning system regulator vacum thing. I got it at a salvage yard for $20 they are $80 new. I thought and swore it was the power pack, coil, etc but I checked my plugs, not gummed up too bad and I could get it to start if I let it turn over like 20 cranks or cleaned the plugs every trip, and my hp/rpm wasn't dropping a crazy amount randomly. The dealer said hit the power pack or tap the coils just prior, like a bad starter, if it works replace it. If it's a coil it will be isolated and make certain plugs foul. I amost spent $100s. Worst case you spent $20 to see if it works better and then get a brand new one. Mine was running too rich all of a sudden fouling all the plugs. When you are out pull a plug just after and see how wet they are. Also does it smoke a little extra on start up and idle out of the marina or channel.



http://www.boats.net/parts/search/BRP/JOHNSON/1990/J150TXESB 1990/VRO2 PUMP/parts.html

 

[surrender]

Re: 1988 88 Johnson SPL hot start problem

probably not a VRO item as the 88 specials were all pre-mix if I remember right. My 1996 88 Special is a premix and for me the best way to start it when cold is to advance the throttle and after pumping the bulb, turn key and push in primer, then turn over. Works pretty well. After the first start of the day it still has to be started this way if it has sat for more then a half hour or so.

 

[emdsapmgr]

Re: 1988 88 Johnson SPL hot start problem

When the engine won't start, it would be good to know if it was a fuel issue, or an ignition issue. There are a couple of simple tests you can run: When it won't start, pull one of the spark plugs and see if it is wet or dry. If wet, you are getting fuel. Also, when it won't start, pull the cowling off and put an inductive timing light on each plugwire. The flashes in the gun will tell you if you have good spark, intermittent, or weak spark or no spark to each plugwire. Ignition problems (weak ignition components) tend to show up once the engine heats up to normal operating temperature. Check the ignition wiring when it is running-look for any wires that may be grounding out to the block, esp the lower ones that are close to the cowling latches.

 

[boobie]

Re: 1988 88 Johnson SPL hot start problem

Stewfish, that item #10 on your post is not used on an 88 special, It is a vacuum switch used on the V-6's to warn you of a fuel restriction in the fuel system. Depending on the yr of mtr it will set off the warning horn or both warning horn and check engine lite.

 

[Blake0912]

Re: 1988 88 Johnson SPL hot start problem

thanks for all of your responses. The motor had champion plugs in it when i bought it and they seemed to be fouled so i replaced with NGk, its just the brand i have always used. I'm going to try and take the boat out next week for a run and try some of the simple tests that you guys have suggested. Since it wont act up while running on the hose i can only do it while running it around the lake. And yes it is a pre-mixed running engine all the SPLs were they do not have a VRO pump.

 

[tboydva]

Re: 1988 88 Johnson SPL hot start problem

Not sure if you've evaluated your carbs, but my same vintage motor had hot start issues much like you describe. A carb rebuild (alleviating gum buildup in on of the jets - can't remember if low or high speed) fixed the issue for me. If it'd been sitting before you purchased or hadn't been serviced for several years, perhaps a carb rebuild is in order during the off season?

 

[Blake0912]

Re: 1988 88 Johnson SPL hot start problem

i was considering taking it to a shop and have them go over it and tune it up since i have no idea how long its been since the motor has been professionally serviced. The guy i bought it from only had it for a year and decided he did not like boating, the previous owner before him was the original owner and claimed it had been sitting up since 2002 i believe. I just didn't want to spend money like that on a motor that runs strong besides the hot start issue which seems like an easy fix. Ill just see how it runs on the lake next week with the new plugs and go from there.

 

[EnonEye]

Re: 1988 88 Johnson SPL hot start problem

I've had a similar problem with my '96 88 Special and every time it was a matter of flooding the engine. Seems like there's a period of rest for the engine when it's hot it starts with no choke, cold needs choke, but that in between temp gives me problems sometimes. Try starting without choke and introducing throttle and finally choke until it starts. But if you choke too early it'll flood in a heartbeat. Works for me.