'72 50hp johnson---most likely place for exhaust leaks into cowl??

[jbjennings]

Was hoping someone familiar with this motor could tell me the most likely places for exhaust leaks. I've discovered the motor runs much better at full throttle with the cowl off. I'm suspecting an exhaust leak but can't see one. Any help appreciated.
JBJ

 

[Daviet]

Re: '72 50hp johnson---most likely place for exhaust leaks into cowl??

The way I find them is to run the engine at a fast idle, squirt oil or ATF into the carband make it smoke. Look around where the powerhead attaches to the exhaust housing, thats where I have found most leaks.

 

[wilde1j]

Re: '72 50hp johnson---most likely place for exhaust leaks into cowl??

Adapter gasket is most common leak spot. Also exhaust covers.

 

[jbjennings]

Re: '72 50hp johnson---most likely place for exhaust leaks into cowl??

I was hoping to have a suggestion for how to find the leak, and where it is most likely to occur. I got just the answers that I was hoping for !!!!!
Thanks for that help Daviet and Wildej!!!!!!!. I will post back in a few days when I find it--my dad has it at his house right now. I'm embarrassed that I didn't think of the "make it smoke" method...
Later,
JBJ

 

[Daviet]

Re: '72 50hp johnson---most likely place for exhaust leaks into cowl??

Let us know what you find.