Replacing reeds

[finspat]

Replacing reeds on a 1989 Johnson 20 horse

Is this something a guy can tackle or you need all kinds of

know how and special tools???

any info would be appriciated

Fins

[iffy]

Sure a guy can tackle that. But why do you assume you need to? In my many years as a marine mechanic, I seen very few engines that needed reeds. Some motors require splitting, while some you can take a plate off the front and access the reeds.

[PierBridge]

How did you determine the engine needed Reeds?

[finspat]

I was told, that replacing the reed with

Boyesen reed, your motor will run better all round.

Esier starting, slower idle for trolling, much better

on gas.And it was an easy thing to do!

So I thought i Should make a post on here

to find out if this is true!

If anyone heard of this!

Any info would be great!

Fins

[Surface Tension]

A carb cleaning should be the first step.

When you have good spark, compression, seals and a clean and tuned carb then you can look toward the reed valve. On your outboard its behind the intake manifold. You'll have the carb off to look get at the reed so clean the carb. If your intent on replacing the reed, go for it. I think if you see any improvement it'll be because of the clean carb.

[marine_man]

I agree with Frank here... new reeds on a 20hp motor isn't going to make a real noticeable change, IMHO anyway. You're better off putting the money into a good tune up.

marine_man

[finspat]

Thank you for your info

greatly appriciated!

Fins