CDI Ignition Question (Compatibility)

[Prkranger2]

I have a 1969 85HP Johnson with a faulty amplifier. The part is very expensive and the ignitiion points are no longer available. Are there any compatible ingnition componets that will work on this outboard or do I have to buy a new one?

 

[R.Johnson]

Re: CDI Ignition Question (Compatibility)

Those part's are still available, but some people have changed to system over to straight 12 volt battery ignition. There have been previous post's on how to do this.

 

[Prkranger2]

Re: CDI Ignition Question (Compatibility)

What is you opinion about switching to a 12v ignition system?

 

[R.Johnson]

Re: CDI Ignition Question (Compatibility)

On a engine that age! that would be the route I would take. I have only seen one engine converted this way, it ran just fine.

 

[WillyBWright]

Re: CDI Ignition Question (Compatibility)

The points are servicable. I use fine wet/dry sandpaper, at least 800 grit.<br /><br />Conventional breaker points produce spark when the points open. Unfortunately, that causes a certain degree of arcing when they open and they wear out. So they decided on a new approach with the advent of electronics. Your points were designed to fire the spark when they close. That pretty much eliminates the arcing and they last much longer. So you don't have Breaker Points, you have Maker Points. There's geometry to the cam that controls when they open an close. Yours is designed the opposite of the kind you propose to put in. For that reason, I find it hard to believe that the system could work "properly". I have heard of it being done. I have heard no reports on how long it lasted. I have no idea if the performance would be the same, but I highly doubt it could be to spec.<br /><br />The leading cause of amplifier failures is poor battery connections. If you get a new amp, make absolutely certain that you have a good battery with clean TIGHT connections, and that your charging system is working. I strongly advise throwing away those worthless wingnuts and substituting stainless locknuts.

 

[R.Johnson]

Re: CDI Ignition Question (Compatibility)

As I said before, I only seen that one engine, and I did not make the switch over. It has been posted here before, but I don't recall the mods. that had to be made. I can't find anything in the 69 OMC service manual that mentions triggering on make. In the theory of operation at the beginning of the ignition section. It say's , the breaker point circuit, opened by the distribution cam triggers the amplifier. The points don't trigger the ignition coil, the amplifier does. If you switch to battery ignition, you will have to install a condensor across the points, like any battery ignition system.

 

[Prkranger2]

Re: CDI Ignition Question (Compatibility)

Mr.Johnson will a CDI universal amplifier work on my 1969 85HP Johnson outboard?

 

[alden135]

Re: CDI Ignition Question (Compatibility)

There are a couple places that you can get that amp for under $200.<br /><br />Here is the iboats one. It's a little more, but at least you'll get good support if there is a problem.<br /><br /> http://www.iboats.com/mall/partfind...gd_poid=112887&gd_row=96&**********=703393495

 

[Prkranger2]

Re: CDI Ignition Question (Compatibility)

Well I found a new amplifier for my outboard. Found it on E-bay and won it for $8.50. The individual stated it was new in the box. I figured if it is faulty that I am out of only a few dollars instead of $200. Now is I need to purchase a new coil, new spark plugs and take it to a outboard mechanic and see what happens. Any suggestions?

 

[DHPMARINE]

Re: CDI Ignition Question (Compatibility)

Unless 'a outboard mechanic' asked you to get your own parts,isn't this a bit like taking eggs and bacon to a diner and asking the kitchen to cook them for you?I have in the past asked boaters to get me parts if I can't find them,but what you need seems readily available.<br /><br />DHP

 

[Prkranger2]

Re: CDI Ignition Question (Compatibility)

Well the reason I am purchasing my on parts is that where I am located there is on 1 or 2 outboard mechanics that will work on Johnson outboard especially one that is classified as a vintage outboard everybody deals with mecr outboards. They charge $70.00 dollars and hour to work on them. Everywhere I checked the parts extremely expensive. So I have save myself approximately $300 so far on purchasing my own parts.

 

[DHPMARINE]

Re: CDI Ignition Question (Compatibility)

I have no problems with anyone saving money where they can ranger2.And I'm proud of you for trying to keep that "oldie" running.<br /><br />I probably ruffled my own feathers again,and riled myself up.<br /><br />I work at a 'mom and pop' store.There are 6 of us including Kelly Ann,who is 16 months old.She sure can clean the shelves....OFF !<br /><br />Our $70.00 rate is based on heat,lights,insurance,wages,etc.<br /><br />when I order your part I pay shipping,etc.Not cheap.<br /><br />This would make it hard for me to install the parts you bring to me.At that same rate.<br /><br />Just part of my story.<br /><br />DHP