rebuild or not '91 115 Johnson

[Sebrof]

Just got bad news.. my '91 Johnson 115 4cyl 2 stroke is in need of a powerhead rebuild. I was quoted 2 grand and i am on the fence about going ahead. To replace it would cost about 5 grand (with a slightly newer rebuilt) or last years model at 9grand or so. Money is definitely an issue but I don't want to be penny wise pound foolish. So lets hear those opinions , is the '91 engine worth rebuilding?

 

[Dhadley]

Re: rebuild or not '91 115 Johnson

That all depends on what it's worth to you. That's pretty close to what you could get for it (down here anyway) running perfectly. If it does the job and you've been satisfied with the performance and efficiency then you're good.

If you've been thinking -- way in the back of your mind -- that you'd like a little newer technology (Economy, efficiency etc) then you might want to put the 2K towards something different.

You can finance a new one, especially with 2K down.

Rebuild this one for 2K and no payments.

Buy something newer but not new for somewhere between 2K and 9K.

Trade it in and whatever they give you for it is $$ off the price + the 2K.

Newer motors are more fuel efficient. How long will it take you to make up the difference in fuel savings?

That little voice way back there is telling you what's best for you. Pay attention to your gut feeling.

 

[Sebrof]

Re: rebuild or not '91 115 Johnson

Dhadley, Thanks for the advice, I know what I want to do and I guess I just had to put it out there.
I'm going to rebuild the motor, after all it has ran for 16 + years without a major problem and with the rebuild I hope to get at least 5 years more to save for a new engine ( or at least new to me) Thanks again
seb

 

[Dhadley]

Re: rebuild or not '91 115 Johnson

The biggest part of a rebuild -- and the most overlooked -- is finding out what caused the problem. A broken ring or a damaged piston is not a cause. That's a result. The cause of that issue has to be found and corrected or you run the risk of a repeat performance.

 

[jaurora]

Re: rebuild or not '91 115 Johnson

I would go with the new powerhead. For the $$ you will have a brand new engine that will run you another 15 years.

 

[luckyinkentucky]

Re: rebuild or not '91 115 Johnson

I would buy a new engine. If you were to ever resell it you would still have a '91 Johnson, and no one would ever pay more than what it's worth. Rebuild or not.

 

[Sebrof]

Re: rebuild or not '91 115 Johnson

I'd like to buy a new engine or powerhead but I'm on a fixed income and unfortunately have to go the least expensive route. When the engine ran well it was strong and a good fit for the boat ( a '90 Proline 19). I spoke with the mechanics today and they will do the lower end at the same time so I will have an old but rebuilt motor.
What would the new-break in procedures look like for a complete rebuild like this? Just to get an idea.
Thanks Seb

 

[Dhadley]

Re: rebuild or not '91 115 Johnson

The break in proceedure will be set by the rebuilder and / or machinist. They're the ones that determine the clearances and materials used in the rebuild. Follow their instructions to the letter. They're the ones providing the warranty.

 

[luckyinkentucky]

Re: rebuild or not '91 115 Johnson

That's another thing. Make sure you get a warranty if you rebuild it. You don't want a guy rebuilding it if he's a guy working out of his garage in the back of the house. Get a reputable dealer to rebuild it, and don't cut corners. $500 cheaper may cost you thousands down the road.

 

[Sebrof]

Re: rebuild or not '91 115 Johnson

Yeah I hear that, I've got a real shop with a good rep doing it. I really dislike paying for help but a rebuild is beyond me, I thought about doing it but came to my senses. Thanks for all the advice
Seb