1972 2hp Johnson - fix or replace?

[skategoat]

I bought a small sailboat that came with this motor and I'm wondering if it's worth rebuilding. It starts usually but it has the following problems:1) Does not seem to run smoothly without choke being pulled completely out. The motor stalls if I close the choke.2) Something's leaking. There's always a minor oil slick around the motor. Don't know what it is but there are always streaks of grey grease/oil running down the shaft of the motor.3) Pull cord jams. I already disassembled the starter, cleaned and greased it but it doesn't seem too reliable.4) Engine floods easily.I'm guessing this is going to cost me $50-$100 in parts and manuals plus a lot of hours of my personal labour. The motor is probably worth $100 if it runs well. I have a line on a mint condition 2003 Honda 4-stroke for $500. So, I'm a big of quandary. Take the time and spend the money to fix or just buy the Honda.Opinions?Thanks,Skategoat

[petrolhead]

Apart from the pull cord problem it sounds like it just needs a carb rebuild kit which is cheap enough. That will probably cure 1 and 4, and maybe 3 as well, leaving the cord which can't be too hard to fix.

[phatmanmike]

in my humble opinion, i say junk it.please send no-good engine for proper disposal to:mike black1439 21 streetlarghetto, fl

[skategoat]

Okay guys, I have the winter to get it sorted out. I'll pick up a manual. Any suggestions on which one? And is there a carb rebuild kit? Also, is there a kit for all the seals that would make up the gearbox? I think there's a leak there.

[Solittle]

On the manual - many libraries have outboard shop manuals in their reference section. You could also brouse eBay.

[Paul Moir]

The carb kit for your engine is PN#398532. Get this from the dealer; it's only a couple bucks more than the aftermarket kit, but it comes with a new plastic float to replace the troublesome cork one.The dealer should be able to help with the lower unit seals, but most often leaks are caused by re-using the fill/drain gaskets. Try some fresh gaskets and see if that doesn't help filrst. They're supposed to be 1 use items.The very best manual is the factory service manual. Unfortunetly, reprints are very expensive ($40USD). But I see several used ones on ebay right now. Search for "2 hp" manual and you'll find a few. Either a '72 Johnson or Evinrude one will work for you.I find the aftermarket Seloc one is also pretty good, but you won't likely find it for less than the ones on ebay. Try your local library for it. Ebay Link

[placebo]

Skategoat, I have a 2HP Evinrude that is probably similar to your motor. When I got it, I had a lot of trouble with the recoil. It was many years back, but as I remember, the screw in the center kept coming loose, causing a lot of trouble. I think there is some sort of index point when all goes back together, otherwise the screw will not stay tight. Like I said, it's been a while since I had any trouble, so I hope this helps.David