TomSelleck
New member
Good day everyone. I’m hoping you can help me troubleshoot my 2004 Johnson 60HP 4-stroke outboard (J60PL4SR) that will not start. Apologies in advance if my lingo is incorrect.
What’s Happening:
- Engine cranks (wants to start but doesn’t catch)
- When the key is turned, all four dash lights illuminate in sequence and it lets out a single beep, which if I recall correctly is normal startup behavior
What I’ve Done to Try Fixing It:
- Ensured that the key is pushed in firmly while turning ignition, though that didn’t change anything
- Pumped out all the old 87 octane (probably up to 10% ethanol) gas
- Quick-disconnected fuel line and used the gas tank bulb to flush out all the old fuel from the line
- Replaced fuel filter
- Filled gas tank with about 2.5 gallons of 92 octane (again, some ethanol) but added Stabil immediately
- Used bulb at gas tank to fill fuel line and fuel filter completely with new gas
- Installed a brand new marine battery (same model so to remove any guesswork)
- Cleaned battery terminal connectors with wire brush to provide the best possible connection
What Occurred After Performing the Above:
- Engine started briefly for 1-2 seconds but then shut down
- After the brief moment of normal operation, the engine returned to not starting as before
Important Details:
- Engine was last run 7 months ago and ran great for 15 minutes in the yard, no issues
- Gas tank has had 87 octane in it for approximately 11 months, untreated because I had forgotten to buy more Stabil
- Exclusively used in saltwater but flushed with freshwater after every use
I’ve read great things about these forums and I would really appreciate some expert advice if y’all would be kind enough to offer it. I’d be glad to go check on the engine and get back to you promptly. Thanks so much!
What’s Happening:
- Engine cranks (wants to start but doesn’t catch)
- When the key is turned, all four dash lights illuminate in sequence and it lets out a single beep, which if I recall correctly is normal startup behavior
What I’ve Done to Try Fixing It:
- Ensured that the key is pushed in firmly while turning ignition, though that didn’t change anything
- Pumped out all the old 87 octane (probably up to 10% ethanol) gas
- Quick-disconnected fuel line and used the gas tank bulb to flush out all the old fuel from the line
- Replaced fuel filter
- Filled gas tank with about 2.5 gallons of 92 octane (again, some ethanol) but added Stabil immediately
- Used bulb at gas tank to fill fuel line and fuel filter completely with new gas
- Installed a brand new marine battery (same model so to remove any guesswork)
- Cleaned battery terminal connectors with wire brush to provide the best possible connection
What Occurred After Performing the Above:
- Engine started briefly for 1-2 seconds but then shut down
- After the brief moment of normal operation, the engine returned to not starting as before
Important Details:
- Engine was last run 7 months ago and ran great for 15 minutes in the yard, no issues
- Gas tank has had 87 octane in it for approximately 11 months, untreated because I had forgotten to buy more Stabil
- Exclusively used in saltwater but flushed with freshwater after every use
I’ve read great things about these forums and I would really appreciate some expert advice if y’all would be kind enough to offer it. I’d be glad to go check on the engine and get back to you promptly. Thanks so much!