85HP Johnson PICS!(should i?)

[THEPATRIOT]

This is the 1969 85HP hrdro-electric Johnson i'm thinking of getting for my old MFG.This motor is CLEAN as new under the cover!The rest of it is super clean/straight also.No corosion,beat up parts ect...Here's the deal-$500-test run,compression tested,perfect controls and wiring.He's also throwing in (2) NOS spare carberators!I see these motors around,i figure if i do get it buy a few parts motors???I'm building this boat on a tight budget and must make every dollar count.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: 85HP Johnson PICS!(should i?)

when they run they are great motors. the problem, controls are scarce, the electrics shift switch. but can be solve with toggle switches.

the lower unit parts are expensive, when you can find them, there are no new parts for it. there is an oil pump that circulates the oil, and electric shift solenoids that direct the oil to the shifter. these solenoids are not available except used, and are $$$$$.

i personnally look for 1973 or newer. 73-76 is hydro mechanical shift. 77 up are mechanical shift.

 

[F_R]

Re: 85HP Johnson PICS!(should i?)

when they run they are great motors. the problem, controls are scarce, the electrics shift switch. but can be solve with toggle switches.

the lower unit parts are expensive, when you can find them, there are no new parts for it. there is an oil pump that circulates the oil, and electric shift solenoids that direct the oil to the shifter. these solenoids are not available except used, and are $$$$$.

i personnally look for 1973 or newer. 73-76 is hydro mechanical shift. 77 up are mechanical shift.

Everybody fears the Hydro-Electric, which is an excellent system if kept full of the correct oil and water doesn't get in it (seals). The big drawack is the shift switch in the remote control. They are super expensive if you can find one.

I would be more concerned about the ignition system. They were state of the art in 1969, but that was then and this is now. Looking back, they were a pain. Again, if in good condition and properly maintained, they are fine and will give you good service.