1986 Johnson Remote Control

[Brookie]

I have a 1986 VRO with what looks like the original remote control. I'm doing some cosmetic repairs and want to replace it. My first choice will be a good used one but I don't know much about them and don't want to get into changing cables too. Is there a model or series that would identify controls that would work?

 

[rolmops]

Re: 1986 Johnson Remote Control

I would love to give the right answers to your questions,but it would really help if you give the horse power and whether it is tiller and long or short shaft.
right now all we can work with is that "it" is 1986 and vro.
The first step to care for your engine is ordering a FACTORY manual,because that will help you prevent unnecessary replacements and repairs of parts that were not broken to begin with.

 

[Brookie]

Re: 1986 Johnson Remote Control

Sorry for the oversight.... The motor is a 110 Hp with a short shaft. As to the tiller I'm not sure, if you mean how is it steered it is remote with a wheel. You will have to excuse me I'm new to the boating world.

Thanks
Brookie

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: 1986 Johnson Remote Control

any control that uses the red plug harness will work, or you can buy one of the new ones with multiple plugs, and get a conversion harness.

 

[rolmops]

Re: 1986 Johnson Remote Control

Concerning the remote.
If you feel that it is really hard to move the handle,it is quite probable that the cables are responsible because of wear and lack of maintenance (lubricant dried up).It is really easy to replace them,so don't panic.
If the handle is wobbly it is quite possible to tighten or replace it although it often happens that is has been banged up by a swiveling chair and then you may need to replace more.Just remember that the power cable usually is part of the remote.Although it is possible to disconnect it at the remote and reconnect it.
The part number of your remote is 0397183 or if it is tilt and trim 0397184.
You can buy a full replacement remote right here on iBoats
The originals are no longer available although the individual parts are.
You should be able to buy one on eBay,but this is a "buyer beware" part.
I like to buy replacement parts right here on iBoats but often specialized parts are not for sale here,then I go to www.iShopMarine.com although opinions about this company are mixed.
Hope this helps.

 

[Brookie]

Re: 1986 Johnson Remote Control

Thanks for the feedback. Now a couple more questions. The wiring from the controls that are on the boat now are connected with butt splices. Were they originally connected with a red plug? If so I would like to put one back in. That's the kind of maintenance I'm doing on this boat. Everything works but it needs some cleaning up and better wire management, among other things. Back to the question, will any Johnson control with a red plug work as a replacement or any control with a red plug regardless of mfg ?

 

[rolmops]

Re: 1986 Johnson Remote Control

Dependent on the year,the number of prongs is different.I do not remember how many your's is supposed to have.If everything is spliced together,you will need the one for the engine wiring harness and the one one the remote cable end.
It is important to stick with Johnson/Evinrude compatible parts
A lot of people here on Iboats will be able to tell you how many prongs you need.
Do not go by the amount of wires that are spliced together right now,because it is quite possible that the previous owner did not hook up any alarms(such as overheating and the like).Heck he may have cut out some fuses and straight wired the thing.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: 1986 Johnson Remote Control

"will any Johnson control with a red plug work as a replacement or any control with a red plug regardless of mfg ? " Johnson/Evinrude use the same control and wiring harness. the wiring harness in no longer made. personally i would clean up the mess and use the existing wiring. if you want the red plug, you will have to change the complete harness. control and motor. nothing wrong with the bullet connector set up. i hate people who cut harnesses, to make it easier to remove the motor.