1957 Johnson 7.5

[fishingdan]

My grandfather originally purchased this engine from a sporting goods store in Chicago. I have the original receipt and "lifetime" warranty certificate. If the store was still around, it would be fun to take the engine in and request work....<br /><br />This engine runs fine and really has very few hours on it (probably less than 100). Overall it is in very good condition. My questions:<br /><br />- Are parts still available for these? As far as I know, the engine is 100% original and I really should change the water pump impeller if anything.<br /><br />- Do people collect these? Does it have any value? I have had this engine for about 15 years and I'm trying to decide what to do with it. The wife isn't too excited about me getting a 3rd boat "just to put that engine on". <br /><br />Thanks,<br />Dan

 

[Laddies]

Re: 1957 Johnson 7.5

Dan, why would you want to sell a engine that your grandfather took care of so well, thay said most nessicary parts are still available, and yes there are collecters out here. bob

 

[DJ]

Re: 1957 Johnson 7.5

I have one of those jewels. Like you, I have the original owners manual and the sales receipt.<br /><br />Mine has seen allot of use. Not beat up, just used.<br /><br />I would have a VERY hard time parting with that.<br />If nothing else, it would hold a place of honor in my garage.<br /><br />And yes, people collect them.

 

[Paul Moir]

Re: 1957 Johnson 7.5

Don't expect 'antique' prices. Just good condition 7.5hp prices.<br />Parts are still easily had for those. Commonly replaced parts are very easy to find while odd parts you'll have to get from the wrecker (online or otherwise). Getting your hands on a NOS oversized piston would be difficult but not impossible, for example.

 

[fishingdan]

Re: 1957 Johnson 7.5

I agree with your comments. I should have been clearer. I plan to keep the engine. If I found that it had some "antique" value, then I would think twice about using it. <br /><br />Where, for example, would I locate a water pump impeller for this engine?<br /><br />Thanks

 

[Paul Moir]

Re: 1957 Johnson 7.5

Iboats sells a little kit - 18-3202 Impeller Repair Kit which replaces everything but the housing. Same thing can be had from a number of sources, NAPA autoparts, etc. The impeller is also available from your local Johnny/Rude dealer, as is the entire pump including housing.<br />Some service for old parts, huh? <br /> Iboats Part Finder<br />PS - stick with 24:1 mix ratio (87 octane gas and TC-W3 rated outboard oil) and never rev the engine in neutral. The 7.5hp had a reputation for severing connecting rods if you abuse it. Treat it well and it'll last another 50 years - probably more.

 

[Chinewalker]

Re: 1957 Johnson 7.5

Hi FishingDan,<br /> Even our most "antique" of motors still gets a dusting off, a little fresh fuel and oil, and a spin of the flywheel now and then. Nothing like a little 2-stroke smoke to let you know that the old iron still has it. Many of our really old stuff isn't "civilized" enough for everyday use, but most motors built after WWII have many of the features we take for granted today - external tanks, full gearshifts, recoil starters, etc., and they're quite reliable when tuned up properly.<br /> The 7.5s in particular are one of the better motors ever built, although as Paul pointed out, they do have their weak spots. I have a pile of busted blocks due to rods seeking daylight. That's caused by one of two things - lack of oil, or running the tar out of it. Stick to running the 24:1 mix using good TCW3 oil and regular gas (high test not necessary), and don't try to push a barge with it, and it'll be just fine...<br /><br />- Scott

 

[fishingdan]

Re: 1957 Johnson 7.5

Thank you.

 

[BoatBuoy]

Re: 1957 Johnson 7.5

I have one of those also. Belonged to my dad and it's been a little jewel. What do you mean, you can't push a barge with it - even if it's prop'ed right?