1960 40hp Johnson Seahorse wiring

I have recently picked up this engine. It is electric start and I am not to good in this department any help on how to set it up would be awsome. Also is there a charging system built right into the engine? <br />Thanks

Re: 1960 40hp Johnson Seahorse wiring

Welcome Pietens,<br /><br />I would suggest investing in a service manual for the motor to begin with. Used OEM manuals can be found on Ebay, new ones can be found at KenCook.com, MarineEngine.com. Aftermarket manuals can be found here at iboats.<br /><br />Since this motor is new to you some good info can be found in this link.<br /><br /> http://forums.iboats.com/cgi-bin/ubb/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic;f=36;t=000033 <br /><br />This diagram should be pretty close to what your motor has.<br />

Re: 1960 40hp Johnson Seahorse wiring

A 1960 should have a mechanical shift lower unit, so the generator (for a charging system) is optional. If it's there, it'll be just to the right of the carburetor, about the same shape as the starter and connected to the flywheel with a notched belt. If it's not present, it's no big deal.

Re: 1960 40hp Johnson Seahorse wiring

thanks all i will certainly check out the manuals and charging unit. Oh and jsut to let u know the engine runs fine i just need to hook up the ecetrical system thanks for the help

Re: 1960 40hp Johnson Seahorse wiring

Make sure you use an ignition switch for an outboard. Car and inboard type ones will put +12v on the magneto lines which will burn out the ignition system. Make sure you get the switch with the two "M" terminals.<br /><br />I drew a schematic for my 28hp which is a little more clear about the ignition switch. It's basically the same as yours, but perhaps has different coloured wires:<br /> 28hp Schematic

Re: 1960 40hp Johnson Seahorse wiring

I should add I will have to wire it from scratch and that it has no genorator or accessories so do I just leave those wires out?

Re: 1960 40hp Johnson Seahorse wiring

Yes, leave out the generator wires, the fuse box, the regulator in the regulator box, and the ammeter can go as well.<br />The original schematic has an unfused line running to the Batt terminal(s) on the keyswitch. This is a bad design and you should fuse within 7" of where you pick up power from the starter cable (on the battery or the solenoid, whichever you like) to be correct with the ABYC wiring rules. Most those keyswitches are rated for 20 amps. Stick with the wire gauges shown. #4 is perfectly acceptable in place of #3 through, as long as the battery is reasonably close.<br />On my 28hp, i have no generator and no junction box too, so I chose to mount the starter under the bonnet rather than in the boat. Needless to say, you want an outboard solenoid as they're correctly wired and won't blow your boat up. I mean they won't ignite gasoline fumes.

Re: 1960 40hp Johnson Seahorse wiring

I was searching to set up charging system on my 60s 40 horse. And there you are.
MCM, thanks for that wonderful schematic, Ive have my Johnson generator bracket, and belt, for my 40 horse for three years, and now am confident to install it with you beautiful diagram, I have bought manuals but your color one is great. Thanks to all too. Enjoy the day Mitchell.

Re: 1960 40hp Johnson Seahorse wiring

This diagram has ben a lot of help thanks guys. I have the same set up. Where is the Tachometer wire connection in the junction box? I have the Grey signal wire at the helm but cant find it in junction box or where it connects. Boat did not come with one but mfg ran the wire to helm. option maybe? I do have the charging system if this helps.
I believe you would get the pick-up signal from one of the magneto wires on the ingnition ?
and the constant 12v.
and the ground wire from the junction box?

Re: 1960 40hp Johnson Seahorse wiring

I have 1960 Johnson 40hp and reviewing wiring diagram shown below. We can see that the wire came from ?M? terminal of the key switch to the cylinder coil. This coil will be powered by 12v continually and be fired. Can somebody to answer for this question? I do now think that diagram is right.