1996 Johnson Fastrike Repost

[JOHN G]

I sent this post on Monday, but with a lot of postings it went back two pages real quick. I am posting again, thanks.

We bought this 1996 Johson Fastrike new in 1997. It has always been dificult to start. Last year, we had all 4 cylinders rebuilt. This past week on the Minnesota opener, I could not get it started by using the starter battery then switching to the trolling motoer battery(both new). I finally got it started using the starter feature on the charger, and with the boost it started immediately.

It has new plugs, hi test gas and the new starter battery has 525 cranking amps.

I do keep the primer bulb tight.

Any ideas?

[John from IL]

You didn't specify your starting routine, so here's a review...

Pump primer bulb up till firm (you're ok there), turn key to on position and push and hold it in (some folk like to hold in for a 5 count or so), but make sure you hold it in while cranking. This engine doesn't use a choke plate in the carburetors, it uses a primer solenoid to provide extra fuel for cold-start enrichment. The primer get's it's fuel via the fuel pump, which only pumps fuel while the engine is cranking or running.

That engine also has a feature called QuickStart which electronically advances spark timing 10 degrees. Typically, the engine should have a slightly hi idle (maybe 800-900 or so rpms). Once the engine warms up, there is a noticable decrease in idle speed. Is the QuickStart system functioning on your engine??

-John

[John]

That was very helpful, I will try this weekend, thanks again

[John L]

I don"t know if you will get this, but your hints worked well easiest start in all the time we owned boat.

Thanks