1979 Johnson 50hp - need help

[JT!]

i recently acquired 2 motors, one of them is a 50r79c


i have the motor on a workhorse, and am looking to reassemble the carbs, which apparently have been cleaned up. the reeds appear clean (the motor was on the ground with the cover off, and no carbs)

my problems:

1) the big red connector has nothing connected to it.
2) it should be a pull start but the cord and spring assembly are missing
3) it came with an electric starter in a box, and the bracket fits, can i use it?
4) can i build an independent circuit myself for the starter, if the motor doesn't allow?
5) should the motor be able to be started on a bench without any special connections? a quick hand-turn of the flywheel didnt produce a spark with the plugs taken out and contacted to chassis.
6) i have the service manual, but cant figure out the torque for the head bolts.
7) is the head gasket metal or paper? will i damage it by inspecting cylinders?
8) why would it be listed as a 'rope' model, but have a starter in it? is this normal?
9) is it safe to wind a rope around the flywheel and pull? will i lose fingers?

-my main worry is the red connector, where does it go?

-attached below is the picture of the way the motor was when i bought it.

thank you in advance

JT, in Montreal

 

[jim_b_20653]

Re: 1979 Johnson 50hp - need help

The Red plug is where the remote control unit connects. I believe that OMC used the Red plug from about 1973 until 1996 when they switched to System check units. You should be able to find a replacement unit on e-bay, or perhaps at a local marina. These motors can be rope started but it's not that easy.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: 1979 Johnson 50hp - need help

should be notch in flywheel for the knot. then wrap rope around flywheel. you will damage any gasket inspecting. strongly suggest you get an OEM Manual, click johnson manuals at top of page.

 

[JT!]

Re: 1979 Johnson 50hp - need help

- i have the manual
- i have 2 'control boxes' 1 that came with motor (has throttle lever)
- a hidden module (for battery?) underneath fiberglasss near where tank & battery might go.


-Does anyone believe the motor (50r79c) came factory with a starter? I figure that would mean most of the wires have been frankenstein'd into it?

-my boat motor knowledge is limited, however, i have been overhauling MX bike engines since the mid-80's - not a far stretch

 

[JT!]

Re: 1979 Johnson 50hp - need help

i just tried plugging in the control box, that was included with the motor, and i'm getting a nice fat white/blue spark.

i'm going to reassemble the carbs that were cleaned and stored in a ziplock bag, keeping my fingers crossed all the needed parts are there.

i am going to attempt starting it today.

1) i dont have a tank yet, can i just stick the hose into a jerrycan of premix and prime it with the bulb? or am i missing a concept?

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: 1979 Johnson 50hp - need help

you will have to use a probe, to prop the center open, so it can draw gas. most 50's were electric start.

 

[JT!]

Re: 1979 Johnson 50hp - need help

most 50's were electric start.

even if the engine tag says 50R79C ? does that just mean it also included a rope??