First post here... been out of boating for a long time. When I was last into boating, Chevy didn't even have a website. That give you an idea? 
I own a 1958 Johnson 7.5 that runs like a top, and used to own a Glasstream bass boat with a 70hp Evinrude.<br /><br />I've now got a Johnson 4.5, model J5RCS. I understand "J" is Johnson, 5 is hp (?), "R" is rope start and "CS" is 1980. By my measurement, top of transom to cav plate is around 18 inches. Not the usual 15 or 20 that folks often speak of. Short shaft, or not? <br /><br />I replaced the water pump (impeller was in pieces), including cup, plate and all gaskets. Found what I thought was water on the plugs also, so I figured the head gasket was shot as well. Replaced the head gasket, but the old one looked OK by my eye. Ran it today after work for about an hour, and when I got it home I pulled the plugs again. When I tap the plug in my palm, along with some gas is what appears to be small water droplets. If it matters, when I transport it I lay the motor on its side in the bottom of the boat, in the back of my pickup.<br /><br />Anyone have an idea of what might be the problem, if there is one? It starts right up, and runs as strong as I'd expect a 4.5 to run. It planes the boat. It's on a 12 ft Landau jon boat. I'm happy with it - - if it weren't for the water on the plugs.<br /><br />Thanks in advance for your replies. I've been wearing out the search function of your site looking for answers.... but haven't found anything specific to my problem. I know I need to check compression, but I don't own a tester. I need to buy one, but until then...<br /><br />Thanks,<br />Glock26
I own a 1958 Johnson 7.5 that runs like a top, and used to own a Glasstream bass boat with a 70hp Evinrude.<br /><br />I've now got a Johnson 4.5, model J5RCS. I understand "J" is Johnson, 5 is hp (?), "R" is rope start and "CS" is 1980. By my measurement, top of transom to cav plate is around 18 inches. Not the usual 15 or 20 that folks often speak of. Short shaft, or not? <br /><br />I replaced the water pump (impeller was in pieces), including cup, plate and all gaskets. Found what I thought was water on the plugs also, so I figured the head gasket was shot as well. Replaced the head gasket, but the old one looked OK by my eye. Ran it today after work for about an hour, and when I got it home I pulled the plugs again. When I tap the plug in my palm, along with some gas is what appears to be small water droplets. If it matters, when I transport it I lay the motor on its side in the bottom of the boat, in the back of my pickup.<br /><br />Anyone have an idea of what might be the problem, if there is one? It starts right up, and runs as strong as I'd expect a 4.5 to run. It planes the boat. It's on a 12 ft Landau jon boat. I'm happy with it - - if it weren't for the water on the plugs.<br /><br />Thanks in advance for your replies. I've been wearing out the search function of your site looking for answers.... but haven't found anything specific to my problem. I know I need to check compression, but I don't own a tester. I need to buy one, but until then...<br /><br />Thanks,<br />Glock26