1990 Johnson 155 Hard to start

[bweir]

My 1991 Johnson 155 gives me a real hard time trying to start for the first time. It will sputter and cough but takes many attempts to get running. Once it is started I can re-start over and over with no problem as long as it does not sit to long. When trying to start I would pump the bulb until hard. After cranking a few times the ball is always soft. Does this indicate a vacuum leak on the fuel line or can I be having fuel pump problems?

 

[Solittle]

Re: 1990 Johnson 155 Hard to start

It is normal for the bulb to get soft after the engine starts. As for the hard starting are you "choking" the engine for 5-8 seconds before you engage the starter?

 

[reddogg]

Re: 1990 Johnson 155 Hard to start

X2 on the choking. Also, this sounds like your carbs are not getting enough fuel at start up, mine will buck and sputter after a few days of not running untill the float bowls get filled up again. Check your fuel hoses for loose connections air could be getting in, replace the primer bulb if you think the check valve in it might be letting fuel flow back into your tank. check your fuel pumps to see if they are pumping right or if it's re-build time. I've found that a clear glass fuel filter with replaceable elements mounted in a horizontal position under the cowling is nice to have as it lets you see the actual fuel flow and gives you an idea of how the pumps are working.

Red