1976 Johnson 85 HP. Please tell me the Good,Bad and the Ugly about them?

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JesterGrin_1

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I picked up my very fist Outboard a 1976 Johnson 85 HP. Model 85ETLR76G whatever all that means? Please tell me the Good,Bad and the Ugly about them as I now have one. :) I know about O about it. But Plan to find out soon as I just completed the Motor Stand that was graciously provided on this forum. So now I have it sitting on something I can work with. But will have to get a few things like a tank and fuel lines and so forth.


And I hope this is not too much for one post. Where would be the best place and best prices for starter parts such as Carburetor Rebuild kits and Water Pump kits for starters.

Thank You one and all. :)
 
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emdsapmgr

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These were great engines in their day. Lots of power in a lightweight package. Your engine has a smaller block (92 cubic inches) than the 115 and 135 that year (99.6 cubic inches.) So some components are not interchangeable with other crossflow models. The engine's condition will be as good as the prior owner's periodic maintenance programs were. You will want to do a compression check, check for spark on all 4 plugwires. Look for about 125 lbs compression on each cyl. Drain and change the lower unit oil to see if there is any water intrusion that may require a gearcase reseal. You will want to change the impeller and the single thermostat called a vernatherm. This will baseline your engine for the start of your ownership. All before you take it for a maiden voyage. Power trim was a real plus, but many of these did not come with that option. Prop that engine to run at 5500-5600 rpm's at wide open throttle. If the engine was sitting for some time prior to your purchase, you may need to overhaul the carbs to get it to run properly.
 
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JesterGrin_1

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emdsapmgr said:
These were great engines in their day. Lots of power in a lightweight package. Your engine has a smaller block (92 cubic inches) than the 115 and 135 that year (99.6 cubic inches.) So some components are not interchangeable with other crossflow models. The engine's condition will be as good as the prior owner's periodic maintenance programs were. You will want to do a compression check, check for spark on all 4 plugwires. Look for about 125 lbs compression on each cyl. Drain and change the lower unit oil to see if there is any water intrusion that may require a gearcase reseal. You will want to change the impeller and the single thermostat called a vernatherm. This will baseline your engine for the start of your ownership. All before you take it for a maiden voyage. Power trim was a real plus, but many of these did not come with that option. Prop that engine to run at 5500-5600 rpm's at wide open throttle.
Click to expand...


Thank You so much for the information.

I also would wish to ask due to the High Cost of New Outboards is it worth it to rebuild the Power Head and or Lower Unit if need be? I ask as I have seen a few talking of rebuilding there Johnson/Evindrude motors in this class?

One more odd thing of which I did do a search on is the gasket that goes on the hood where can I find those? I did read one small reply that mentioned using fuel line and slitting it down the center on one side but did not mention what size and type of fuel tubing?

Sorry if this is a bit much as I am a little excited this being my first Outboard. And also will be building a Panga Style Boat from scratch for it. :) So the 1976 Johnson 85 HP will be Plenty. .

Thank You.
 
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emdsapmgr

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Factory service manuals on the web at: outboardbooks.com. You can find genuine factory exploded parts diagrams at this website: epc.brp.com. Once you know the original part number you can start to figure out who still has stock on it.
 
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JesterGrin_1

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emdsapmgr said:
Factory service manuals on the web at: outboardbooks.com. You can find genuine factory exploded parts diagrams at this website: epc.brp.com. Once you know the original part number you can start to figure out who still has stock on it.
Click to expand...

And another HUGE Thank You. As this is some very Helpful Information. As posted I found the books on E bay and saved a penny or two I think. But the other site you gave epc.brp.com also has some good information.
 
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emdsapmgr

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That factory parts diagram shows the upper cowling seal was originally part number: 319234. Taking that original part number to any Evinrude dealer, they will sell you the superceded part number seal: 329548. Under $ 40.
 
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