Engine will not crank when not choked

[jeffwhite22]

I have a 10hp '58 Johnson Seahorse. I have had it for a week now. When I first used it, it cranked and ran perfectly fine. The second time I took it out it would not crank at all. It would fire when choked but wouldn't do anything when not choked. Occasionally it would fire (sound as if it would when the choke was on), but never start. I figured I had flooded it. I took it out the next day and it did the same thing. For some reason, it will now crank and run when it is choked but die as soon as I take the choke off. The plugs seem as if they are in good shape. I did fill the gas up. Is there a chance I put too much or too little oil in it? Any help would be much appreciated.

 

[CATransplant]

Re: Engine will not crank when not choked

I'm confused. When you say "cranked" do you mean started? Normally cranking means to turn over, either with the recoil starter or electric starter.<br /><br />If it turns over, but does not start, it didn't start, but it "cranked."<br /><br />It's confusing when you say things in a way that most people don't.<br /><br />So, does the engine turn over but not run or even try to run?

 

[Solittle]

Re: Engine will not crank when not choked

What have you done to service this old lady?

 

[jeffwhite22]

Re: Engine will not crank when not choked

when I am saying cranked I mean started. I haven't done anything to service it yet because I'm not sure where to start.

 

[R.Johnson]

Re: Engine will not crank when not choked

I'm confused here also, cranking, or turning over with the starter is one thing. Not starting when turning over, or cranking is another. If it will not run without choking, you have a clogged carb.

 

[Solittle]

Re: Engine will not crank when not choked

jeff - Start by rebuilding the carb. You also need to think about new plugs and changing the oil in the gear case. Check the hoses (fuel line) as it may be brittle. And I would do points & condenser unless it runs real well.

 

[jeffwhite22]

Re: Engine will not crank when not choked

Thanks for the help SoLittle. I'll let you know how it goes.