1957 Johnson Javelin 35hp resource site

[Chinewalker]

Re: 1957 Johnson Javelin 35hp resource site

Hi Guys,<br /> Just to clarify a few things....<br /> The "J" in the RJE-XX model numbers referred to the Javelin edition. The Javelins were "deluxe" models, if you will. They always came with electric starters, and none came as tillers. The 1956s were 30hp, approx. 36 cubic inches. The 1957s were 35hp and approx. 40 cubic inches. They were mechanically identical to their respective RD-XX models. The RD models could have come as either electric or manual, with or without a tiller handle. If it was originally electric starting, it would have had the 'E' in the model number, following the 'D'. <br /> As for colors, the '56s were predominantly burnt red, with white accents, with the Javelin model having chrome accents. The '57 models had completely different paint schemes with the 'D' model having a burnt red lower end with a burnt red and white cowling (more white than '56). The 'J' model had a white lower unit with gold and white cowling with chrome accents. Both years' Javelins had doors over the carb knobs and the recoil handle, covers that the 'D' models lacked. <br /> - Scott

 

[CATransplant]

Re: 1957 Johnson Javelin 35hp resource site

Thanks. That sounds right. Then, in 1958, Johnson brought out the Super Seahorse RDS(L)-20 35 hp as the deluxe model, while keeping the other 35s in the line.<br /><br />Big differences, though, between the 57 Javelin and the RDS-20. They added a fuel pump and got rid of the old pressure tank. I think that was the year they added the extra cover over the exhaust tube, as well. The RDS-20 had a pretty gold and white cover, with the front door.<br /><br />Then, in 1959, they redesigned the cover completely, making it less gaudy. Myself, I prefer the dressed-up covers, with the wings and all. Very sexy.

 

[lfancher]

Re: 1957 Johnson Javelin 35hp resource site

I'm speechless...the knowledge ya'll possess is almost frightening. I sure am in over my head here.<br /><br />I want you both to know that I also keep chickens, just a few, and there's a chicken website called Backyard Chickens, and a forum there for questions. The similarity between folks who love chickens and folks who love vintage motors, is, well, compelling.<br /><br />And strangely, I find myself at both places.<br /><br />

 

[CATransplant]

Re: 1957 Johnson Javelin 35hp resource site

Keep hanging out here. Pretty soon, you'll be an expert on your particular model. I first came here in February this year, looking for help with my '59. I got it, too.<br /><br />Now, I'm hanging around to offer whatever help I can to other owners of these geriatric JohnnyRudes.<br /><br />You've gotta love 'em, even if they're a pain in the nether regions sometimes.

 

[KirbyE]

Re: 1957 Johnson Javelin 35hp resource site

Hi.<br />I'm a newbie, but you folks seem to have this well at hand.<br />I have a 1959 35 hp Super Sea Horse, and I want to add electric start. The thing I'm hung up on is how did they charge the battery in the ones with electic start that had no generater? Some say they just didn't. Is this true? I would like to add a magneto type charger rather than the heavy generater. My boat has no other accessories to power. Is there a way to do this? Thanks.

 

[CATransplant]

Re: 1957 Johnson Javelin 35hp resource site

Yup. Most of those boats had no charging circuits. You didn't really need them, since the battery was only used to start the engine. No power was required while it was running. Folks kept a battery charger in the garage and charged the battery at home. I still do that. No bother. A 24-sized starting battery will start that old 35hp many, many times on a full charge. Just charge it before every trip.

 

[Chinewalker]

Re: 1957 Johnson Javelin 35hp resource site

Hi Kirby,<br /> There is no way to add a magneto charger to your motor - all space under the flywheel is taken up by the ignition. The generator accessory was the only factory supplied way of keeping the battery up with the motor. Some parts, particularly the drive belts, are in short supply these days.<br /> In all honesty, all you really need is a cheap solar trickle charger, available through West Marine, etc. for under $30.00. It won't charge a flat battery, but it will keep a good battery topped off. Your motor doesn't use much juice to start it, particularly if it is in good tune and starts easily. If you're regularly draining the battery, either you've got a bad battery or the motor needs help elsewhere.<br />- Scott

 

[KirbyE]

Re: 1957 Johnson Javelin 35hp resource site

Thanks for the clarifications.<br />This may not be the correct place, but can any of you sell me the flywheel, starter, & bracket I need to add electric start to mine? Or direct me to the correct forum / website I should use? (I have already been watching eBay). Again, I want to be sure I get the appropriate parts. What do I need to look for? Are all the flywheels the same? (28, 33, 35, 40 hp) Thanks a ton. Kirby.