questions

[fishmonger3483]

Hey guys, first time posting on here. I just picked up an Older Johnson 35 HP today for $100. From a bit of research I'm pretty sure it's a 57 Johnson 35 HP Model RD-19 and serial 222914. It hasn't been run in a while and I didn't have a chance to try it out yet and not sure if I'll be able to since ice will be on the lakes here soon. My biggest problem is it didn't come with a gas tank. I have a 1957 Johnson 18 HP that I use all the time and figured it would have the same fitting but it's not. I guess the first question is can I change the fitting on this so that I can use the same tank from my 57 18HP or is this the dreaded pressure type tank that I've been hearing about..?? Second question is...Is there a decompression switch on these. There is something on the head that looks like two valves for the both cylinders and it's hooked up to a metal rod. It looks like there should be a lever or cable attached to it but the guy never said anything. Anyways if there is anything else I should know etc about this motor feel free to tell me. I'm hoping to get the fuel line fitting situation fixed ASAP so I can at least try it out to see if it runs. Also there is no electric start on it....only manual. Thanks

 

[HighTrim]

Re: questions

It is in fact a 57. Not sure on the fuel fitting issue, but seeing as how it has sat for a while, make sure to go over the water pump, inspect the plugs, bath and rebuild the carb, and check the coils condition, if they are original, they probably need to be replaced. There are many guys on here very experienced in these motors so if you're patient they will be able to guide you. Good luck.

 

[fishmonger3483]

Re: questions

Thanks. I was hoping to just try and get it started before freeze up but looks like It'll be a winter project. When I got my 57 18HP my dad took everything apart and cleaned and replaced everything. That was 13 years ago and that thing still runs like a top. Hopefully I'll be able to do the same with this one.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: questions

describe the fitting you have on each motor. i have a 58 35 that is converted to the single line modern tank. hang the motor on something steady. Yes it has compression relief. flat lever should run from back of head up into the flywheel. do a compression check, with the compression relief disconnected, can remove the 2 screws at the connection near the head. now you can reconnect the relief connector, and do a spark check. spark should jump 3/8 inch bright blue.

get back with these and we will see if it's worth going one. the compression is the most important thing.

when i get a senior one like these, i replace everything under the flywheel, coils, points condenser, plug wires, do the carb with a kit, and do the water pump. around $200 at laingsoutboards.com.

you can see the connection for the compression relief at the very top.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: questions

here's the thread on converting to the fuel pump.

http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=205628

 

[F_R]

Re: questions

Both of your '57 motors should have the twin hose pressure tank system. If one of them is different, it has been converted.

 

[fishmonger3483]

Re: questions

Thanks to all for the replies.

tashasdaddy:
Unfortunately I have the motor at the cottage so I'll have to wait until next weekend to do a compression test on it. Thanks for confirming the compression release. My problem is I do not have it connected to anything and I'm not sure where I connect it. I just have the flat lever which has the two holes at the top (looks like you connect something there). You say it should go under the flywheel.

Anyways from what I remember the fuel line has two lines and when I looked closely it said "fuel" on the one and "air" on the other. My 57 Johnson 18HP has a normal OMC type fitting and I use it on the regular style gas tanks. I will take a look at the conversion for sure. I don't want to have to buy a pressure tank.

Anyways thanks again for the replies. I think if I go to the cottage next week I'll bring the motor home so I can work on it here this winter and that way it'll be closer if I need to go and look at to ask some questions.