2000 Johnson 175. Won't Idle!

[buzzjet]

I have a 2000 model Johnson 175. It will not idle cleanly. It idles at a very low RPM (around 600 or 700). Most of the time, I end up choking it while idling around just to keep it running. The bulb stays firm all the time. Does anyone know what will help this issue?

[ChampioNman]

Welcome BuzzJet,
you can try and adjusting the idle screw but you would be better off adjusting the low speed jets (idle) and then reset everything. I'm just up the road from you if you don't feel confident in doing the carbs.

[ezmuny13]

welcome buzzjet.ChampioNman won't steer you wrong

[RUSTY63]

You need to check.....idle timing....carb low speed mixture and cylinder head temp....any of these could cause you motor to idle low.

[buzzjet]

Thanks for the advice. And Champion Man. I will contact you. I do not feel comfortable adjusting the carbs myself. Rusty is probably onto something with the timing as well. A dealer adjusted my timing and ever since, it has idled very low rpm.

[SEAHORSE]

If I remember correctly, that motor should idle in gear and in the water between 650 and 750 rpm. It sounds like its too slow, but don't forget that tachometers are not very accurate at those rpms, so a digital or a "shop tach" is needed for the correct setting.