Johnson 45 Seahorse 1985?

[Jose Collazo]

My first post (with lots of hope) on this site.
Got this motor on my "new" (1972) boston whaler 13'. I was told that motor is a 1985. Only ID I have is motor cover. I don't seem to find any motor serial # which I could use to further confirm year. In my search I did not see any discussion at all on 45hp 1985 Seahorse. Motor is in pretty good condition however would like to make an in-depth inspection.
While showing my brother how good it started, he mentioned it seemed to have thermostats removed.
I just had the boat painted and new rubrail intalled.
Any linformation that you can provide will be much appreciated.
Thanks in advance!

 

[tx1961whaler]

Re: Johnson 45 Seahorse 1985?

No such thing as a 45 HP Johnson or Evinrude, as I can find.
If there is not a tag on the transom mount, look for a small round silver plug on the powerhead. It may have the model number of serial number on it.

 

[Willyclay]

Re: Johnson 45 Seahorse 1985?

Welcome to the iboats.com forum. The experts here can help you with any issues involving a boat, motor and trailer. I my opinion this is the single best resource for recreational boaters. While I am not an expert, I did search the OMC database and could not find a 45HP model listed from 1922-1999. Closest are 40 and 48HP. OMC put model numbers and serial numbers in two different location on each motor for the last fifty years or so. One is an engraved label/tag on the transom bracket visible from the side. The other is an aluminum disk about the size of a U.S. quarter recessed in a well on the powerhead. If you cannot find the model number in either of those locations, then post a picture or two so the gurus can do their thing. Good luck!

 

[JB]

Re: Johnson 45 Seahorse 1985?

Howdy, Jose.

Welcome to iboats.

1. That boat is rated for 40HP max, and that only on console models. Max for a tiller model is 20HP. It would be a very bad idea to mount a 45 on it. On my Boston Whaler Sport 13s (console steering) 25HP gave the best all round performance.

2. No 45HP Johnson Sea Horse was ever made. You may have the name confused. . . maybe Sea King??

Maybe if you can post a picture we can help you out.

 

[Jose Collazo]

Re: Johnson 45 Seahorse 1985?

Thanks to you all for the quick response. I will certainly be following your advice and looking for those indicators. In any case, I will be including a picture for best reference.
Best

 

[Jose Collazo]

Re: Johnson 45 Seahorse 1985?

Getting there!!! Just found the small piece of metal on top of the block which seems to be for model and serial no.
SJ45RSR
G7485493.
I will try searching these later today. Will share my findings.
Tks to all again.

 

[Willyclay]

Re: Johnson 45 Seahorse 1985?

My best shot! Didn't look at "commercial" models before.

Model No. SJ45RSR, year of manufacture = 1987
S = South American manufactured
J = Johnson brand
45 = 45HP
RS = Rope start, commercial
R = Rope start, tiller
= standard, 15 inch length


http://www.maxrules.com/OMC_models.html

 

[Jose Collazo]

Re: Johnson 45 Seahorse 1985?

Man you did go fast!!
I verified your source and confirmed your information. I now have a much clear picture of the motor I have.
I thank you and 'iboats.com for the great service I've received. I will certainly spread the word.
Will stay in touch.
best regards to all.

 

[Jose Collazo]

Re: Johnson 45 Seahorse 1985?

Hi to all. Not sure how many had the chance to see that there was in fact a45hp Seahorse made in 1987!
Yes:
Model No. SJ45RSR, year of manufacture = 1987
S = South American manufactured
J = Johnson brand
45 = 45HP
RS = Rope start, commercial
R = Rope start, tiller
= standard, 15 inch length
I'm now interested in obtaining a manual for this one.Wonder if it would be any different than the 'standard' 45hp. I'm now in the process (finally) of fine tunning the motor.
Made an attempt to start it yesterday with no luck.
Getting closer to go to the water!

 

[Haffiman]

Re: Johnson 45 Seahorse 1985?

It is a manual down-tuned 50 with a 3-cyl gearcase, but a 40/50 ratio.
If you are looking for props, you have to search the 3/4 cyl engines.
Use Champion QL16V plugs and not the QUL77V.
Get the thermostat working or plugs will foul out rather quick!
Sold several of them to commercial fishermen, fish farmers an on safety boats.
Not precisely the fastest ones in that HP range on a light boat, but surely one that pulls the most!
Ideal on pontoons.

 

[tx1961whaler]

Re: Johnson 45 Seahorse 1985?

That motor is too big for that hull.