1968 55hp johnson knowledge

[zuup_2000]

I am getting a 1968 55hp johnson for free with all the controls etc.. The power head is in great shape and runs excellent. Im sure you know where im going with this, yes the lower unit is shot. I was told it made some nasty noises and locked up. My question is, are any of the other johnson electric shift LU's interchangeable in the late 60's.<br /> I would like to know what to look for as far as used LU's and if it has to be exact model to work.<br /> I came across a few late 60's electric shift engines and dont want to waste any money on them if they wont work.<br /> Sorry, i dont have any model numbers yet, havent picked up the engine yet. Just trying to get a head start, and seeing if it will be worth fixing up.<br />Thanks Mike

 

[phatmanmike]

Re: 1968 55hp johnson knowledge

your motor is not electric shift, first of all , its called HYDRO ELECTRIC shift... DO NOT get this confused with regular old electric shift, 2 different machines and not interchangable...<br />look on ebay, they are all over the place, you can use either of the 3 cylinder models(55hp, 65hp) or you can use the 2 cylinder model(50hp), but... and this is a BIG but... if you use the 2 cylinder lower unit, the gear ratio is a lil bit diferent, nothing major, and the driveshafts may need to be swapped, again, nothing major, but they will work..... first thing you need is a service manual, they sell them here at iboats.com for about 25 bucks and it will be the best 25 bucks youll ever spend if you plan on keeping this motor for any length of time

seeing if it will be worth fixing up

always<br /><br />m ikey

 

[JB]

Re: 1968 55hp johnson knowledge

Moving to Johnson Troubles

 

[ledgefinder]

Re: 1968 55hp johnson knowledge

Yes, any 1968-72 55/60/65 triple hydroelectric shift will work. Check the fluid, looking to see if there's water in it, or if the fluid's milky. If the fluid's just been changed, you may not learn much. Turn the driveshaft. If the waterpump is any good, you may need a pair of vice grips to do this. Pad the vicegrips, and use them on the middle of the shaft where they aren't going to mess up any bearing surfaces. Turn the shaft clockwise only (looking down from the top). OK, the propshaft should also turn clockwise - does it? Now apply 12V to both leads. Turn the driveshaft a few complete revolutions, and the propshaft should eventually shift into reverse - that is, start turning counter-clockwise. It may take several revolutions for this to happen, and the unit will have to have fluid in it for this to work. If it passes both tests, it's probably OK. It wouldn't hurt to ask up front whether he'll refund if it doesn't work. Make sure you put a new impeller in it while you're there. If the pump housing is scored much, go for a complete pump kit.