Difference between 'Commercial' and 'non-commercial'

[BigBand]

I'm looking at purchasing a 1994 55hp Johnson outboard that the owner says is a 'commercial' model. He says the model number is J55RWLERE.

What is the difference between commercial and non-commercial?

Are parts more difficult to find for commercial motors?

Apparently he has added electric start and tiller steering.

Is 23" shaft normal for these commercial motors. I am of the understanding that 20"-21" is the norm for a long shaft outboard.

 

[racerone]

Re: Difference between 'Commercial' and 'non-commercial'

Internally on the powerhead there is no difference between them.-------The difference is in features like tiller steering and electric start manual start.-----No automatic oil mixing on some commercial models.-------Another big item is the lower unit.-------The standard lower unit on 2 cylinder motor is not considered " robust " and therefor they use the modified 3 cylinder lower unit on the 2 cylinder motors.------The 3 cylinder commercial models use the 3 cylinder lower unit.----Some 4 cylinder commercial models use a V-6 lower unit.----Some parts like the driveshaft to adapt the 3 cylinder lower unit to the 2 cylinder may be more difficult to find in the future.-----------So from year to year there are subtle differences.------------No difference in internal engine parts like crankshaft / pistons / rods.-----Ok now you are confused , but I hope more informed.

 

[hardwater fisherman]

Re: Difference between 'Commercial' and 'non-commercial'

my friend has a 1992 55 tiller commercial evinrude. it was an ex quebec fish and game motor. i think you may find the tiller is factory as my friends motor is also a tiller, but it is rope start. he has a long shaft 20 inch. it is a good strong motor. but im not sure what makes it commercial. as far as the shaft length i think the L would indicate long shaft or 20inch. the RW indicates commercial with interlock. sorry not sure what interlock means.

 

[emdsapmgr]

Re: Difference between 'Commercial' and 'non-commercial'

In addition to the lower unit differences, the engine may also have lower compression than a consumer model, so that the lower octane fuels (perhaps in overseas environments) can be used. Since they do have different gears/gear cases, many times they don't work as well on recreational boats. Sometimes their larger gearcases require unusual prop sizes which are not as efficient. Normal shaft lengths have been 20". Possible that some of these commercial models are also made in 25" length for workboat applications.

 

[BigBand]

Re: Difference between 'Commercial' and 'non-commercial'

Wow, this is great information, keep it coming!

Can I assume that this motor would have battery charging capability?

 

[kfa4303]

Re: Difference between 'Commercial' and 'non-commercial'

Mercury makes a "Bigfoot" model with a beefed up lower unit, which are quite popular.

 

[racerone]

Re: Difference between 'Commercial' and 'non-commercial'

You can not assume anything.----There are electric start motors that do not have battery charging.--If it does not have that it can be added.-----Does it have a rectifier installed ? any yellow wires coming from the stator ?-Any pictures of this motor ?--------Make sure you try it on a boat before you hand over your hard earned $$$$$

 

[emdsapmgr]

Re: Difference between 'Commercial' and 'non-commercial'

The addition of electric start does not necessarily mean it has a stator that will recharge the batteries. A model number would be helpful to us as we try to answer your questions.

 

[BigBand]

Re: Difference between 'Commercial' and 'non-commercial'

The addition of electric start does not necessarily mean it has a stator that will recharge the batteries. A model number would be helpful to us as we try to answer your questions.

Here's the model number: J55RWLERE

 

[emdsapmgr]

Re: Difference between 'Commercial' and 'non-commercial'

Sorry, I see the model number in your first post. 1994 engine. Tiller, pull start, 44.9 cubic inches. Does not appear to have an alternator for battery charging standard from the factory. (you'd have to move up to the 100 commercial for that.) Loop-charged, it does have compression relief for easier starting and stainless steel fasteners, unlike the stock 50. Also, shot peened /hardened drive shafts and chrome water pump. Stock 50 hp gear ratio: 12:29. Gear ratio in your 55 is: 12:32.