Ive got a 1976 Johnson Seahorse model number 55EL76E, serial number E4473745.
I have never worked on outboards before and I am about to start her up.
The engine has been sitting for a couple years. I need to know some things before I start her.
What type of battery should I get?
Does this engine have a battery charger on it?
Should I change the lower unit oil?
Do I need to check the impeller?
What it is the gas and oil ratio?
If you can answer any on these questions it would help me out a lot.
Thanks
Re: 1976 Johnson Seahorse 1st time start up in years
Look in the "Top Secret File"' awakening a sleeping outboard, good read.
I use a marine battery, will get several opinions on this.
Yes, it should charge the battery.
Yes, change the lower unit oil and use new seal washers on the drain/vent screws.
Yes, replace it while you are in there.
50:1, 1 pint to 6 gallons of gas.
Re: 1976 Johnson Seahorse 1st time start up in years
You don't need a super strong battery to start the motor. A 550A car battery will work, but so will an ATV/motorcycle battery. Here's a pic of the oil(s), but there are many different brands. You can get it at Wally world and marine stores.
Re: 1976 Johnson Seahorse 1st time start up in years
Any two cycle outboard oil with TC-W3 marked on the bottle is acceptable for use in your outboard. Do not use two cycle oil that is intended for air cooled engines like chain saws. For the lower unit any 80W90 or 90W oil that meets GL-5 specs is suitable, some will say you need to use marine lube but it is not necessary. Both types of oil an be purchased at Wally World. The pump makes it easier but it is not the end of the world if you don't have one. When filling the lower unit you fill from the bottom hole forcing the air out of the top hole. When the oil reaches the top hole cap off that on first and then cap the fill port.
I love the smell of a two stroke early in the morning
Currently running a 1971 Starcraft JetStar powered by an E35QLEDC and a 4436R
Re: 1976 Johnson Seahorse 1st time start up in years
And drop the lower unit and replace the impellar while you're doing all this maintenance. Make sure you put fresh, correctly gapped plugs in her, and clean or rebuild the carbs, while inspecting the fuel system all the way to the tank.
"If it ain't broke....don't worry, 5 minutes with me and it will be!"
1996 Trophy 1802 - 120hp Force (by Mercury...snicker)
8' Hardbottom Dinghy w/Evinrude 6hp OB (oh yeah, this is the 'boat')
In the market for nice, local area, sailboat, with the operative word being-"cheap"