Wiring 1983 to 1998

Ranger330

Cadet
Joined
May 21, 2014
Messages
29
Blew my 1983 90hp Evinrude and purchased a 1998 Johnson 150hp. I have the 150 rigged and ready to go except wiring. My old control cables seem to work but I'm not sure about the wiring. Some of the wires match up but some don't. Two that I have questions about are the choke from the 83 (purple/white) doesn't have a match on the 1998 harness, also the 1998 has 2 black/white which should be a stop 2 ignition wire, but the manual only calls for one. Is this going to be possible or will I have to have 1998 controls?
 

emdsapmgr

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Dec 9, 2005
Messages
11,551
OMC changed the connectors for the 96 model year. Bombardier makes adapter cables which will let you use the red plug from the 83 control box wire harness and adapt it to the 98 engine. Check with your local Bombardier/Evinrude dealer and have him look it up in their Parts and Accessories guide. Check out this part number: 176345. For the price of this adapter cable kit, you may just want to locate a used 96 and newer control box.
 
Last edited:

tblshur

Senior Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Aug 24, 2011
Messages
688
you probably already know but i think 140hp is recommended for that boat. what plans do you have for the 90:confused:
 

Ranger330

Cadet
Joined
May 21, 2014
Messages
29
The adapter cost from 115 to $167. Any idea where I could find a 96 or newer control box? Tblshur- I do know it's rated for a 140. I searched for a 125-140 with no luck. Ran up on a good deal on the 150. It weighs about 75lbs more than my 90 did. I am parting out the 90. Already sold the lower unit.
 

Chris1956

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 25, 2004
Messages
27,036
You can graft the wiring harness, if you have both the old and new boat harnesses. You will need a wiring diaghram from both year motors. Then create a wire color connection list, and use some crimp on butt connectors. I recommend you flux them, crimp them, solder them and then cover with shrink wrap.
 
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