1949 Johnson seahorse 5h.p TD-20 help!!

[g-man22]

I have a 1949 Johnson seahorse 5h.p Model number TD-20. i need some help on the chrome or silvery stuff on the front and that wraps around the back is old and dull looking and i want to get it to shine again and i dont know if you can buff it or what you do to it to make it look good again. Also there are many dents in the tank and im not sure what to do but i dont want to weld it and cut it open. Any ideas. I have to put new decals and paint on it and i need ideas how to paint it and what to do for this . i fixed the carb and she ran fine. but any help will help me alot.

Thanks, g-man22
i attached some pictures so you can see what im talking about

[bktheking]

2 choices with the tank, either find a relatively straight one or bondo the one you have to make it straight.

For decals and paint, see this site

http://nymarine.ca/49JO5WEBPIC.gif

http://nymarine.ca/colours.html

As far as the chrome, a chrome compound and good buffing wheel would make it shine.

[Chinewalker]

FYI - it's not chrome, rather polished aluminum. If it is heavily oxidized, a graduated regimen of progressively finer sandpapers, wet sanding imperfections out, and eventually using polishing compounds would result in a bright finish. Would need frequent repolishings to maintain finish, as aluminum oxidizes easily. Some folks clearcoat them to keep the shine.

Another alternative to filling would be heat and pressure. Some folks have used an air compressor and a homemade fitting to get medium positive air pressure inside the tank, and then heating the dented areas with a propane torch to pop them back into shape. Care should be taken as it is possible to burst the tank with too much air pressure. And, of course, the tank should have NO gasoline residue in it whatsoever.

- Scott

[g-man22]

Thanks for the help but would it help to us e buffer wheel to polish it. An dim confused you say i should sand it??

thanks

[bktheking]

Google the process for refinishing aluminum, buffing is a final step (unless you are polishing it), sanding gets rid of the scratches and slight scuffs in aluminum.

Here is a PDF on the subject:

http://www.raydobbins.com/polishing/Polishing_Guide.pdf

[g-man22]

Also does any one have and diagrams or manuals for the TD-20 so i dont have to buy it?

[1946Zephyr]

www.outboardbooks.com is a good source. AKA Ken Cook Company. I've bought a few books from them and they cover the old TD's pretty good.

[g-man22]

does anyone know how much a 1949 Johnson seahorse 5 h.p TD-20 repainted and with new decals and running perfect would be worth if i sell it? thanks

[Chinewalker]

If you're thinking about the value of the motor when restored, stop now, as it isn't worth it. I sold a restored one on eBay about a month ago for $200. The TDs are very common. If you want to restore it, do it because you'll keep it and enjoy it, not because you think it'll be "worth" more.