Scope of changing pull start rope on 70s Johnson

[benji88]

I have a 70's (exact year unknown) 20 HP Johnson outboard. While out on a recent underwater hunting expedition the rope/cord used to start the motor snapped. I have the Johnson service manual and it seems to be doable except for the spring quickly unwinding and possibly ending my life in a blaze of shame. Is this job pretty straightforward? Does the spring have to be replaced indefinitely or is it possible it is just bent? Thanks.

 

[trucker28]

Re: Scope of changing pull start rope on 70s Johnson

I have a 70's (exact year unknown) 20 HP Johnson outboard. While out on a recent underwater hunting expedition the rope/cord used to start the motor snapped. I have the Johnson service manual and it seems to be doable except for the spring quickly unwinding and possibly ending my life in a blaze of shame. Is this job pretty straightforward? Does the spring have to be replaced indefinitely or is it possible it is just bent? Thanks.

just take apart slowly you shuld not have a problem the hardest part about doining it is winding the sprig back up but if you do it slowly you might not have to wind the spring up

 

[eavega]

Re: Scope of changing pull start rope on 70s Johnson

Its really an easy job, just you have to be very deliberate when working with the spring. As long as you are careful changing the spring is really a simple job.

Rgds

-Eric

 

[F_R]

Re: Scope of changing pull start rope on 70s Johnson

If the rope broke, figure on the spring being ruined from backlash. You might be able to straighten it, but figure on it breaking soon if you do. Might as well replace it now.

Hint: Look for a small, about 1/8" hole in the rope pulley. Find a nail or something that will fit in the hole. When you get the new spring installed, and the pulley installed (without the rope), wind it up as far as it will go--then unwind it one turn. Now stick that nail in the hole. That will keep the pulley from unwinding and give you all day to thread the rope in. Note that it goes behind a pin near the knot hole. Once you get it threaded in and the handle on it, hang onto it and remove the pin and let it recoil slowly. Install the pawl assembly and pat yourself on the back for a job well done.

 

[benji88]

Re: Scope of changing pull start rope on 70s Johnson

Thanks for all the fast replies. Assuming I replace the spring. Is it a motor specific part or something generic?