Re: parts for a 50's and up
One way or another, pretty much all parts are available. NOS parts continue to turn up for the 50s johnnyrudes.
In a way, though, that's not the question to ask. If a 50s outboard has internal engine problems, skip it. It's one thing to rebuild the magneto and carburetor and rebuild the water pump. Those parts are readily available and not horribly expensive.
When you get into engine internals and gearcase components, it's very easy to exceed the value of a good outboard of that vintage.
In almost all cases, the most economical thing is to buy one that someone has already put into good running condition. It's always surprising at what low prices OMC outboards of that vintage bring, even when running perfectly and in OK cosmetic condition.
At a very minumum, make sure that what you buy has very good compression and, at least, will shift into and out of gear.
If I remember correctly, you're looking for something in the 15-18hp range. I realize that you live in a remote, rural area, so finding something local may not work out. But check the Craig's List pages for places you'd be willing to drive to to pick up a really nice outboard. The next couple of months will have lots of people trying to sell outboards they plan to replace next season. There are bunches of them on the Twin Cities Craig's List, and prices are low during the Fall.
