Johnson 60-- worn out or not?

[merc20]

I need help guys--<br /><br />I have found an early 90's Johnson 60hp, (3 cyl, PT&T)<br />I am planning on checking it out Sunday and need help as to what exactly could be signs of a problem.<br /><br />History-- the motor was bought new by the seller and and ran alot (3-4 days a week) since bought new. A factory new powerhead was put on the motor 3 years ago. 2 years ago the owner bought a bigger boat and decided to buy a new 90hp for better performance. The 60 was ran alot in the year it was in service after the powerhead replacement. The 60 has been propped up in a shed for 2 yrs with no attention whatsoever. The seller said he remembers a strange noise coming from the foot, but it still operates fine.<br /><br />I will be getting such a good deal on the motor that I really wouldn't mind relpacing the foot if need be, so it is not really a concern.<br /><br />Other than compression, what other signs should I look for??<br /><br />Also, I will be using my controls from a mid 80's 35hp and I need to add the power trim button--what is involved?

 

[JB]

Re: Johnson 60-- worn out or not?

You can't wear out a good outboard in a year (powerhead use).<br /><br />You might have some work to do in the lower end, but you are gonna drop it anyway to change the impeller.<br /><br />Don't know your definition of a "good deal", but I would take it.

 

[OBJ]

Re: Johnson 60-- worn out or not?

Not much you can tell from an idle engine merc. Get compression readings, check the spark at each cylinder and drain the gear lube and take a look at it.<br /><br />Compression is what I'd look at hard. If it's up there in the 90and above psi range and all holes are within 10 to 15%, block is likely still good.<br /><br />Spark and gear case....can be dealt with as well as carb overhaul which will mostl likely be needed along with a new water pump kit....and a t-stat. But if the compression is gone....big problem maybe in the block.<br /><br />At on TNT switch's are easy to do. You can get the kit to install the switch on the control handle from any BRP dealership.

 

[OBJ]

Re: Johnson 60-- worn out or not?

Got me again JB.......

 

[merc20]

Re: Johnson 60-- worn out or not?

??Good deal= $500

 

[koolerb]

Re: Johnson 60-- worn out or not?

There is a service bulletin out to relocate the indicator port to the top of the block, from the side of the exhaust cover. Air was getting trapped at the top of the motor causing failure of the #1 cylinder. <br /><br />The #2 cylinder on that motor was prone to heating causing excessive wear. There is a SB out to replace the 44D high-speed jets (on all three carbs) with 47D’s, and change the max spark advance.<br /><br />All that said it’s really nice running motor. My first priority on checking it out would be a compression test. I’m not sure how to best inspect the lower unit on a used outboard. There’s always an element of risk buying a used motor. If it’s in good shape $500 sounds like a fair price. Good luck.

 

[DHPMARINE]

Re: Johnson 60-- worn out or not?

I'm sure you may be able to repair the 'foot' but be aware a new one costs $2800.00.So maybe figure $1400.00 in repairs.Add $xxxx for carb,waterpump and misc. OH figure in $500.00 for the purchase.<br /><br />Aren't there any installed running motors for sale out there ?<br /><br />DHP

 

[koolerb]

Re: Johnson 60-- worn out or not?

I just re-read your original post, I missed the part about the noise coming from the foot. In good running condition (no unusual noises) I'd guess this engine is only worth about $800-$900. Be careful.

 

[merc20]

Re: Johnson 60-- worn out or not?

Thanks guys. <br /><br />koolerb, I would love to buy one is good shape for 800-900 bucks. Let me know it you have one.<br /><br />Most similar motors around here sell for at least $1500, but they are usually much older than that.