I've Never Been So Proud! 57' 18hp Johnson

CBGale2

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
Apr 22, 2009
Messages
1,026
Well..... other than my kids being born.....

First off, thanks to everyone on here for the help, pointers, and Top Secret Instructions, special thanks to JBJ.

Early this spring I picked up an old 15' alum. sea king with a 18hp 57' Johnson on it. Went through the whole boat, stripped the paint, repainted and all new interior. Next was the motor, tried to fire it up at first and it wasnt running well at all. So I jumped into feet first after much encouragment from you guys. I replaced the water pump, gear oil, everything under the flywheel and a total carb rebuild. Keep in mind I have never touched a outboard or any other small engine before in my life. Today I went outside after finishing the carb, bolted it all back together and started pulling...... wouldnt start at first, and then she fired, and just sat there an growled at me. I think a tear may have ran down my face, or it could have been a splash of water. But either way I am so proud of myself, I had this lingering thought in the back of my head that I was going to have to take it in to have it fixed right. But I did it all by myself, along with my friends on iBoats. Ok Im done being sappy, just had to share the great news. :D Next step fine tuning on the water.
 

MushCreek

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Jun 20, 2009
Messages
150
Re: I've Never Been So Proud! 57' 18hp Johnson

Great job! I think if you're gonna run a 50+ year old motor, it's a good idea to know how to do basic maintenance and repairs yourself. Actually, I think boaters should know something about their motors regardless of age. It's not like you can walk home if it dies on you!
 

lowkee

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Dec 13, 2008
Messages
1,890
Re: I've Never Been So Proud! 57' 18hp Johnson

Where are the pics? You can't brag without pics! :)
 

jbjennings

Captain
Joined
Jul 18, 2007
Messages
3,903
Re: I've Never Been So Proud! 57' 18hp Johnson

Where are the pics? You can't brag without pics! :)

Amen, Lowkee!!!!!:D
Glad to hear you got that thing going, CB! You're going to really love that motor when you get it fine tuned. If it takes more than 2 pulls to start it cold, it ain't tuned right!:p
Love those FD-11's
JBJ
 

CBGale2

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
Apr 22, 2009
Messages
1,026
Re: I've Never Been So Proud! 57' 18hp Johnson

I know, I was in a hurry, had to get to work. And my work security blocks me from getting my pictures. :mad: So I stole these out of one of my old posts, let me know if they show up (I cant see them).... I'll update tomorrow.


 

tashasdaddy

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Nov 11, 2005
Messages
51,019
Re: I've Never Been So Proud! 57' 18hp Johnson

Sweet!!!!!!
 

CBGale2

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
Apr 22, 2009
Messages
1,026
Re: I've Never Been So Proud! 57' 18hp Johnson

Sweet!!!!!!


TD, thanks for the carb rebuild instructions, they were a huge help. I cant wait to get the old rig out on the water and let her rip, and see if the boat floats :eek:
 

Richman

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jan 31, 2007
Messages
36
Re: I've Never Been So Proud! 57' 18hp Johnson

You should be proud. There is nothing better than tackling a job that is new to you and learning from it. That engine and boat will last a lifetime and be something that you can hand down to your kids.
 

CBGale2

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
Apr 22, 2009
Messages
1,026
Re: I've Never Been So Proud! 57' 18hp Johnson

Best part of it all was that the original investment was only $350 :D, for the boat, motor and trailer. Im sure Im getting close to a $1000 now :eek:. Dont tell my wife ;).
 

krogie

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Jun 3, 2009
Messages
107
Re: I've Never Been So Proud! 57' 18hp Johnson

i wont tell her. a good running boat for under a grand . what a deal ! good luck and enjoy.
 

ezmobee

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 26, 2007
Messages
23,767
Re: I've Never Been So Proud! 57' 18hp Johnson

Looks like a great fishing rig. I'm sure it will provide you many years of service.
 

CBGale2

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
Apr 22, 2009
Messages
1,026
Re: I've Never Been So Proud! 57' 18hp Johnson

Put the rig in the water this past weekend. Motor fired right up again :eek:. Ran it around the lake for a little bit and it ran great. And the boat didnt leak a bit. Even caught a couple gills to break it in.
 

jonesg

Admiral
Joined
Feb 22, 2008
Messages
7,198
Re: I've Never Been So Proud! 57' 18hp Johnson

good job, its probably worth more than you spent now.
Thats not easy to accomplish with boats and money.
 
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