2001 Johnson 70

[mini-x fan]

I have a 2001 Johnson 70 that I need some opinions on. This is a saltwater motor that has treated me very well over the years. It hates to idle, but it starts with the flick of a key and runs fantastic. I have an exhaust leak down the midsection and also water is getting into the cowling somehow from the midsection. This has resulted in rusting the bottom of my powerhead as well as my head bolts. It still has an even 118-120 lbs compression across all cylinders.

This motor is not coming apart due to all of the rust. Every bolt would be an absolute nightmare. How long should I expect it to keep running like this? I

As far as a repower, what would be the most economical option? I am just out of college so I am not willing to spend more than $2,500 or so. I am mechanically inclined and I do all of the work myself, so I am not afraid of older engines. It is on a 14 ft center console flats boat, so I can't afford much more weight on the transom. I could go about 50 lbs heavier. Thoughts on this situation?

 

[clemsonfor]

If your not going to fool with that one it will be a parts motor and that's your budget. If I was you I would look for a good freshwater engine of similar size maybe even same engine so that I had a parts motor that I could try to pull parts off of as needed.