1968 johnnyrude 55 hp help

[Hukeedo]

I have a chance to get a 1968 johnson 55 hp that the guy says it runs but runs a little while then stops and he said it starts right back up. He says it's bad gas or the carbs need cleaned. Should i buy it? He wants 100 bucks for it and has a title and controls. I am wondering if you guys thought he is correct on what may be the problem or could it be something worse?

 

[levi_tsk]

Re: 1968 johnnyrude 55 hp help

go to habor frieght and get yourself a 15 dollar compression tester and check the compression FIRST
if its good and even on all cylinders (90+psi) get it the power heads worth that ....

 

[Daviet]

Re: 1968 johnnyrude 55 hp help

Be careful, electric shift lower unit, when they work they are great. Water can cause all kinds of problems, make sure there is no water in the lower unit. Shift control parts are hard to find and expensive.

 

[Hukeedo]

Re: 1968 johnnyrude 55 hp help

You know, i think i will pass. I have been reading posts on these motors and it does'nt seem that they are worth it. The hydro-electric shift seems to be of great problematic concern on these motors and hard to find parts and expensive as you say Daviet. So, i will save my money and buy something better. My 1970 merc 500 50 hp won't go into gear and wanted to replace it with a johnson and this one came up on craigslist. And, 68 is about as old as me and i got my share of problems!
Thanks for the info and suggestions.

 

[levi_tsk]

Re: 1968 johnnyrude 55 hp help

yeah sorry i didnt realize that was and electric shift so yeah id stay away from that one .... what was evinrude thinking when they built those things?? salt water and electric solinoids and servos seems like bad idea all the way around??