Re: Where can I get parts & etc for a 50's Johnson
I was wondering where can a person get full set of gaskets,seals,piston rings,water pump and etc for a 1955 johnson 5.5 and other 50's johnsons..
Thanks for looking
JAPK
Hmm...I think the first question you'd want to ask is why you're rebuilding that outboard. If it's for nostalgic reasons, like it belonged to your grandfather and you want to put it back in original condition, then it might be worth rebuilding to that extent.
If not, then it's probably not a worthwhile expenditure of funds and time. There are thousands and thousands of those 5.5s and other 50's Johnson and Evinrude outboards out there in good running condition, and at very low prices. In almost all cases, a complete teardown and rebuilding is simply going to cost way more than your outboard is worth. If you can buy a good-running replacement for less, that's the way to go.
On the other hand, rebuilding the magneto makes sense and is affordable. Same with resealing a lower unit. But a major overhaul? Unless there is an excellent reason to do it, I don't see the point. There will be another one available on the market shortly that already runs well, and for much less than the cost for pistons, rings, bearings, and gaskets. Not to mention the time needed to run down those parts and do the work.
It's up to you, of course, but...