Johnson 25 pull start

[Dizz]

Was wondering how hard a Johnson late 80`s pull start is to pull?I`ve had
15`s,and they weren`t that bad.
also,will the electric start whole deal off a 91 15hp fit on a 25?Lastly,if the 25 comes pull start does that mean it also won`t have alternator to charge battery?Thanks for any help.

 

[River - Runner]

Re: Johnson 25 pull start

Just my thoughts..... All motors from mid-range down are made to rope start. When you know your motor and it's tuned, they're all easy to rope start. I like to keep everything simple, especially on small boats. I wouldn't do electric start conversions unless for physical problems and you can add it on later if you really need it. My biggest is a 40 hp. rope start, ordered it that way when I bought it and love it.

 

[wbeaton]

Re: Johnson 25 pull start

I have several 1980's Johnsons (20, 25, 25 and 30 hp). They are easy enough to pull over as long as they fire right away. I added manual start to my electric start 30 hp as a back up, but I never use it. The electric start is VERY nice. I used to be against electric start until I got it. The benefit of the electric start is that you have the ability to recharge your battery(s). You don't get that option with the manual start. Put in a battery selector and you can charge your trolling motor battery, as well.

I built my 30 hp from parts and ended up with a tiller steer, electric start where the electric primer and start button are on the front of the motor (looks like factory). After having used it for awhile, I wouldn't want it set up any other way. IMO

Oh, and no the 15hp is a different animal. The parts won't fit.

 

[Dizz]

Re: Johnson 25 pull start

Thank`s to both of you.I was thinking of bidding on a minty 87 25HP short shaft.It looked like it had only been in the water a time or two,shiny paint&all.The guy pulled it for a local sale,and it was only an hour from home on e-bay.25`s with a short shaft are next to impossible to find local.Still looking,thanks again!

 

[wbeaton]

Re: Johnson 25 pull start

I'd have no problem with that motor manual start or not. Electric start is just my preference.

 

[jbjennings]

Re: Johnson 25 pull start

wbeaton, i liked your 10 johnson pic, i've got one the same year too and that thing will push my boat 19.2 mph on a gps. i also have a '99 johnson 30 which is virtually the same as a 25. it's rope start only and is very easy to start, as are all johnsons. although for the same reason as you, i'd like to have e-start just to charge battery, just didn't want to spend the extra cash for it.
jbj

 

[Scaaty]

Re: Johnson 25 pull start

Just sold a 20hp mid 80's Johnny on a 14 Fishing boat...actually it was a arm stretcher...if it bite ya back, ...OUCH...but it did have a rebuilt powerhead of unkown origin...didn't catch any fish either..of course that could have been the pilot's fault

 

[wbeaton]

Re: Johnson 25 pull start

"...didn't catch any fish either.."

I don't think its fair to call that a fishing boat then. I'd have sold it too!

jbjennings, that an interesting topic you bring up. I'm always curious how fast these old motors push boats. The 1953 Johnson in my avatar pushes a 12.3' boat rated for 12.5 hp at 32 kmh / 20 mph GPS.