'86 Johnson 120 VRO poor idle and slow speed

[Jim Whitlatch]

I recently purchased my first boat and am having an idle problem. It seems to run real rich and will die at the worst possible time then is hard to start.I changed plugs but it still isn't right. My question concerns the timing advance linkage. The piece that looks like a small shock absorber. When I advance the throttle this linkage advances the timing ( I think) to full advance before the carburetor butterflies start to open. Is this normal? To me this seems like it could be my problem if the timing is fully advanced at idle speed. I'm new at outboard motors so correct me if I'm wrong. The motor runs fine at wot around 6000 rpm and anywhere from around 2000 on up.

 

[DJ]

Re: '86 Johnson 120 VRO poor idle and slow speed

Jim,<br /><br />Yes, the advance does go first.<br /><br />More than likely, your carburetors are gummed up. They will need to be disassembled and cleaned. It's not that difficult, with a manual in hand.

 

[Jim Whitlatch]

Re: '86 Johnson 120 VRO poor idle and slow speed

Hi djohns19, Thanks for the reply. I will get the proper kits and clean the carbs. I will not be able to do this until July however because the boat is in Florida and I won't be back there until then. I'm just trying to get everthing ready and my mind straight on what I need to do. I have the Clymers manual for the motor. I'll let you know how I make out. It looks a lot easier than a car carb.

 

[93bronco]

Re: '86 Johnson 120 VRO poor idle and slow speed

get yourself an omc manual with parts book, you will thank yourself

 

[Jim Whitlatch]

Re: '86 Johnson 120 VRO poor idle and slow speed

2k Boat,<br />Thanks for the tip. I have located a parts book but have not found a factory service manual yet.<br />I also have a Seloc manual coming. I'm a firm believer in having plenty of information on hand.<br />I will get an OMC Johnson manual as soon as I locate it.