1981 Johnson 4 HP – Model J4WCIC
Hard Starting / Will Not Idle
Motor takes 8–10 pulls to start (currently using a drill). Will not idle but runs great from half to full throttle.
Ignition & Timing:
- Installed new points, condensers, plug wires, and replaced cracked coils.
- Points set at .020 using feeler gauge at high point of cam.
- Replaced incorrect J6C plugs with new L82C plugs, gaped at .030.
- Timing light shows no misfires, but flywheel timing mark is ⅛–¼” left of mag plate marks for both cylinders.
- No timing tool available.
- Set cam follower timing marks where carb. just begins opening.
Carburetor:
- Replaced missing low-speed needle (#431634) with stainless steel needle, new packing washers, and nylon washer.
- Cleaned carb.; passages appear clear.
- Replaced cork float with plastic float and installed new intake gasket.
- Float is level, and needle seats properly.
- Fuel tank and filters clean with good fuel flow.
- Low-speed adjustment has little to no effect. Currently set at 1½ turns out.
- Have not installed a complete carb kit.
Seals:
- Checked upper crankshaft seal for leaks; none found.
- Replaced upper drive shaft to lower crankshaft O-ring while replacing water pump impeller.
Question: What could cause the hard starting and failure to idle when the motor runs well at higher throttle? Could timing or the low-speed carb. circuit be the issue?
Thanks,
Kent
Kent Cochran
1949 10 hp Johnson QD-10
1951 5 hp Johnson TN-27
1952 10 hp Johnson QD-13
1956 7.5 hp Evinrude 7520
1957 7.5 hp Evinrude 7522
