1965 Johnson 40hp Electric Clutch

[audiejenn]

When we accelerate our motor it begins to jerk in the water. As if the clutch is slipping or disengaging and reengaging. After removing te outer case we noticed the two wires leading to the electromagnets were crimped and one appeared to be nearly severed. I think it was the green wire that was nearly severed. The question I have is: Could this be the culprit? If not what would make this jerking happen? We do not hear any grinding, just this disengage/reengage jerking. If we go slow, we can putter around at 4nts, anything more causes the jerking to start. Last weekend, we could accelerate at least double this speed, if not more. The week before we could go even faster. Thanks in advance.

 

[royal0014]

Re: 1965 Johnson 40hp Electric Clutch

The green wire is the forward (go) coil, blue is reverse. First, find what caused the crimped wires. A short in those wires would be bad news.

Hard to tell what is going on based on your description, but low voltage to the forward coil will make funny things happen. To me, sounds like possibly a spun prop hub. Hit anything lately? Is it the original prop? After 40+ years, the rubber hub could be gone.

Just my thoughts, maybe the gurus will pop in with better answers....

 

[F_R]

Re: 1965 Johnson 40hp Electric Clutch

Probably an electrical problem. The bad wires makes it even more suspect. You need to do an complete shift circuit checkout, including voltages and amps, from one end to the other. The clutches can't do their job without getting proper electric current.

 

[audiejenn]

Re: 1965 Johnson 40hp Electric Clutch

Yes, it is the original prop. The crimping was caused by the casing. The wires were ran over the rubber channel that the outer casing seats on when bolted on. Thanks for the insight. If you can think of anything else, please let me know. I will begin by rerouting the clutch wires. Then I will splice and heat shrink them. I will test voltage once this is done. It is probably a good time to drain and flush the lower end in preparation for next weekend.