Clinton j7 need info

[great gricey]

I have an old clinton j7 chief and I don't understand how to use the control knobs on the front of the motor. Can anyone explain what they are and how to use them? I figure they are for air mix at different speeds but I can't figure it out.

 

[steelespike]

Re: Clinton j7 need info

I don't have direct experience with the Clinton.Typically there is a highspeed
mixture knob usually the larger knob.idle knob is usually smaller.From generic service manual::Initial setting is one turn out from gently bottomed idle knob 3/4 turn out.If you can't identify the knobs do both at one turn out.Idle knob will have affect at 1/2 speed.Running warm at about 1/2 speed adjust the high speed to the best setting turning first counter clockwise then clockwise to best setting.then adjust idle at idle speed.after setting alternately open and close the throttle .Motor should respond smoothly
and not die at slow speed.If motor falters readjust beginning with the high.
if it doesn't respond check the float level or rebuild carb.

 

[great gricey]

Re: Clinton j7 need info

Thanks for the response. I am confused about "one turn out" and "3/4 turn out" The knobs on this particular motor have little stopper tabs on them, not allowing any more than one 360 degree turn. I can get the motor started however it won't run for any length of time.

 

[great gricey]

Re: Clinton j7 need info

how difficult is it to find a new carb for the J7. also, is the J7 the same as the J9 - they look the same. is it just the model year?

 

[steelespike]

Re: Clinton j7 need info

You may have to remove the knobs so you can turn them in to gently bottom.
then out the correct number of turns.Install the knobs at the midway point.
J7,8 and 9 are all 5 hp very similar.J7 is a 57 motor.
These motors are generally sub par performers.Don't operate the same 2 days in a row.If yours has performed well for you go to it.If out of extended storage your time and money is better spent elsewhere. A 3,4,5,5.5 or 6 hp Evinrude Johnson 52-79 are smoother,quieter,faster,more reliable,
easy to work on and have a vast new and used parts supply from many venders.

 

[witenite0560]

Re: Clinton j7 need info

Steelspike, thanks. That answered another question I had, as far as the hp rating. I kind of figured it would be a bit of a sub par performer (I used to have a little Clinton 1.5hp on my canoe.). But, it'll get me by while I save up for a Johnson or Evinrude. What the heck, it only cost me $11.50 and $34.00 for shipping. Figured as long as it runs I can get that back out of it someday.

 

[steelespike]

Re: Clinton j7 need info

Looks like we have two threads going here.It can get very confusing as Qs and As accumulate.You should start your own thread.
I hope you have good luck.We'll sure try to help you out.

 

[great gricey]

Re: Clinton j7 need info

I removed the knobs and reset them - never thought of that. I had to let the engine run until it was warm before getting it to run at high speed. The knobs were open way too far. Thanks!

 

[witenite0560]

Re: Clinton j7 need info

Wooo hooo!! I cleaned it up, hooked fuel to it, put it in a barrel and it popped on the first pull, started on about the 6th pull. Adjusted the mixture a bit and she runs like a top. Not bad for a total of $45.