neglected 115 johnson

[fishin musician]

I recently became the caretaker of a 1974 115 Johnson. The engine was running when the boat was left unused for nearly two years. I pulled the plugs and had a hard time turning the flywheel by hand. Motor was tilted up and I lubricated the cylinders with wd40 and then oil and let sit. Motor now turns easily without plugs in but is difficult to crank when plugs installed. There does not seem to be any corrosion or other signs of engine seizure. Thoughts?

 

[alcan]

Re: neglected 115 johnson

Hello Fishin<br />I would make sure the batt was good and fully charged. Remove and clean batt cables at both ends. Lube starter motor bearings or bushings. Remove plugs, ground plug wires, open throtle, spray wd-40 or pre- mix in the carb. Turn it over. This should lube the main bearings etc. Crank it enough to blow out excess oil. Take compression readings. If all good, reinstall plugs, supply water to lower unit, supply known fresh fuel and lighter up. I would change gear oil first.

 

[Fouled Plug]

Re: neglected 115 johnson

Fishin, Alcan covered all the bases. The only thing I might do differently is run the first couple gallons of fresh mix at 25:1 just to be nice to the rings/bearings.

 

[DJ]

Re: neglected 115 johnson

fishin musician,<br /><br />Part of your slow turn may be the impeller (water pump). Change it before you run it.<br /><br />Otherwise, all the advice given , I agree with.