Identifying Motor Type

[bandito19]

I am fairly new to boating and was given a older bowrider. I finally got the motor running but am having a problem identifying the specs of the motor. It is a johnson OB and the model # is 85EL77S, the serial # looks like J4758530. Is there some way to determine the year and HP with this info? Also, I believe the oil needs to be mixed with the gas, is the ratio 50:1?<br /><br />Thanks.<br />Bill

 

[twista_02]

Re: Identifying Motor Type

Go to the library and go through the boat repair manuals. page through quick or if you know the horse power go to the glossary. There should be pictures in there. Once you find the picture, read through the info and narrow it down.

 

[Dhadley]

Re: Identifying Motor Type

Welcome!!<br /><br />That would be a 1977 85 hp.

 

[JB]

Re: Identifying Motor Type

Hi, Billy. <br /><br />DHadley got your model.<br /><br />Yes, you need to mix fuel. 50:1 is 1 pint of TC-W3 outboard oil to 6 gallons of unleaded regular gas.<br /><br />Good luck.

 

[bandito19]

Re: Identifying Motor Type

All,<br /><br />Thank you so much for your help and timely response. One other trouble shooting question, I motor needs a shot of starting fluid each time when starting it cold, once it warms up and I put down the idle, it is ok. Would this be a sign of a problem coming or just the motor showing it's age?<br /><br />Thanks again!<br /><br />Billy

 

[Dhadley]

Re: Identifying Motor Type

That could be something as simple as your choke butterflies are not completely closed. Or it could be where the manual choke lever is set. There are 3 positions to your manual choke lever on the airbox. <br /><br />Manual on. The butterfies are closed at all times.<br /><br />Automatic (middle position). Your choke is controled by the switch at the helm. This is what you want.<br /><br />Manual off. The butterflies are held open no matter what you do with the switch at the helm (no choking).<br /><br />Good luck!

 

[bandito19]

Re: Identifying Motor Type

DHadley,<br /><br />Thanks!

 

[Dhadley]

Re: Identifying Motor Type

Let us know what you find!<br /><br />Good luck!