200 HP Ocean Runner Head Gaskets

[Pat066]

I recently purchased a 1998 200 hp Johnson Ocean Runner. The motor has 350 hours total. I have been told the head gaskets begin to leak over time and small amounts of water enters the cylinders from the cooling passages. This results in washing the oil off the cylinder walls and scores them.

Has anyone herd of this? Is a common problem with this model motor. My thought is to have them replaced if not to expensive. Any help would be appreciated.

Thanks,

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: 200 HP Ocean Runner Head Gaskets

do a compression test, as a base line, the motor will tell you when one blows, why take a chance at breaking a bolt, when not necessary.

 

[Faztbullet]

Re: 200 HP Ocean Runner Head Gaskets

Go ahead and put gaskets on it. The loopers do have a problem with the heads shifting around as you were told. Higher hour motors are more prone for this. Just be careful as the bolts may break. When you get them off have them surfaced & trued and retorque to 24ft lbs. Use NEW bolts........

 

[Chris1956]

Re: 200 HP Ocean Runner Head Gaskets

Pat, The head gaskets on my '98 150HP Johnny are a single o ring for each cylinder plus some marine silicone around the water passages. You might look on the parts diagram to see if yours is the same.