Johnson 7,5 power loss?

[Magnum Force]

I own a 1982 7.5hp Johnson outboard. Recently on a fishing trip I nearly ran out of fuel. After refueling and running half the next day it all started. While at full throttle, the engine started to die. It acted like it wasn't getting enough fuel. It would idle fine, but when I throttled up it would die at anything over half throttle. If I pulled out the choke about half way it would stay running enough to get back to shore. The bulb on the tank is hard and the vent on the tank is open. At home I removed the out line on the fuel pump and pulled it over. It seems to be spurting fuel, wether it is enough or not I am not for sure. Fuel screen is clear of any obstructions. I checked the plugs and replaced with new ones after gapping. It still has the problem. Fuel pump?, carb problem?, or am I looking in the wrong direction?

 

[ob15]

Re: Johnson 7,5 power loss?

Sounds like maybe the carb got plugged up with gunk from the bottom of the tank. Wait for the experts to confirm

 

[DJ]

Re: Johnson 7,5 power loss?

Most likely the high speed jet in the carb is clogged. Also, make sure you have spark on both plugs.

 

[Chinewalker]

Re: Johnson 7,5 power loss?

Carb issue. The kicker is the "I pulled out the choke about half way it would stay running". Disassemble and clean the carb. DO NOT simply spray carb cleaner down the throat and expect it to clean it. I'm betting you'll find some sludge ot gunk in there that's got things fouled up...<br />- Scott

 

[Magnum Force]

Re: Johnson 7,5 power loss?

I pulled the carb last evening. To my suprise it was as clean as new! There really isn't all that much that can be torn down and cleaned, but I disassembled what I could and sprayed even where I couldn't tear down. I will drop it into our pond tonight and try it out. Thanks for the replies and I will let everyone know if the cleaning was a success.

 

[Magnum Force]

Re: Johnson 7,5 power loss?

I would like to thank everyone who helped me fix my outboard. Although I didn't see any sludge or crud plugging anything, I sprayed into everthing possible. I put it in the water last night and it runs full tilt now with no hesitation. Must have unclogged something! Thanks again, Tim