head gasket and where can i get it

[OldJohnson60]

Hi there,<br />I am new to the world of outboards and just bought an old boat to fix up for really cheap. I have a 60 hp 3 cyl. johnson on it, model number 60173C. I had finally got it to run decent and i went to check the plugs and found that the middle cylinder was soaked in milky water, oil mix, and the lower had a slight amount on it, the top cylinder is fine. Is this a head gasket problem, where could I order one if it is the problem? Thank you guys so much.<br /><br />Josh

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: head gasket and where can i get it

Water can enter the cylinders via a failing head gasket, a warped cylinder head, corroded block sealing surface, or any defect in the exhaust baffle plate area (the vertical plate on the side of the engine).<br /><br />Best thing to do first is to remove the cylinder head and inspect the gasket and sealing areas closely. Hopefully you simply have a bad gasket.<br /><br />If so, the gasket is available at any Evinrude/Johnson dealership, also possibly NAPA etc.

 

[OldJohnson60]

Re: head gasket and where can i get it

Thank you so much Joe,<br />I have a very small leak coming from somewhere on that vertical plate on the starter side of the motor, could my problem be in there? I noticed that around the mating edges of it there is RTV sticking out like someone took it off and sealed it with RTV when they put it back on. Also is the head gasket the outer gasket closest to the spark plugs or the one a little further back and a little more square looking? Thank you so much once again!

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: head gasket and where can i get it

I meant to say on my previous reply that your engine is a 1971 model. The head gasket is the further back inner gasket. You will need to remove the 1/2" hex head bolts.<br /><br />The silicone is a bad sign! that stuff has no business being anywhere near a outboard engine. And yes, it is possible that the problem is in that area..... but check the cyl head area first.

 

[OldJohnson60]

Re: head gasket and where can i get it

Thanks again Joe,<br />This is the last post for tonight. Is pulling the head something I need a manual for? If I get a gasket before I get a manual can you tell me the torque specs on the head bolts? I am familiar with autmotive type cylinder heads so I think I can handle the job even though I know they are different worlds. Also do I need a manual for taking apart the baffle cover or is it simple?<br />Thanks,<br />Josh

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: head gasket and where can i get it

Josh.... It would help to have a manual as some things can get slightly complex. In order to remove that side exhaust baffle plate, it will be necessary to remove the powerhead to get at the bolts.<br /><br />The cylinder head, you can manage that I'm sure. The bolt torque is 18 tp 20 foot pounds, to be tightened in the following sequence.<br /><br />Center left bolt, then center right bolt, then drop down to the next right bolt, then continue in an ever widening circle.