1955 25 hp johnson with electric start

[bessfirst]

Hello Is this considered a reliable set up and are parts avialable? Thank You.

 

[jbjennings]

Re: 1955 25 hp johnson with electric start

IT's a reliable motor and plenty of parts available. The lower crankshaft seal is often in need of replacement, but not hard to do (involves pulling the powerhead but can be done in an afternoon with no special tools).
It's not a quiet motor, but has the power of a 25hp that you expect. I find a lot of those 25's from the 1950s come with worn clutch dogs and forward gear ears. The best running ones I've had have at least 115psi of compression on both cylinders.

 

[kfa4303]

Re: 1955 25 hp johnson with electric start

+1. Good motors and you can still get most routine parts right here at iboats. Here are some handy links that can familiarize you with motors of that era.

Reviving a Vintage Big Twin - Part 1
Vintage Evinrude Johnson Outboard Parts & Diagrams - Catalog 376368

 

[mjlohre]

Re: 1955 25 hp johnson with electric start

I have the opportunity to buy a red one of these, it looks really cool. The guy told me to make him an offer, what would be a good deal for this motor running?

 

[mjlohre]

Re: 1955 25 hp johnson with electric start

I have the opportunity to buy a red one of these, it looks really cool. The guy told me to make him an offer, what would be a good deal for this motor running?

 

[F_R]

Re: 1955 25 hp johnson with electric start

Hello Is this considered a reliable set up and are parts avialable? Thank You.

Models RD/RDE-17-R and RD/RDE-17-S had seal problems that would destroy the powerhead. It is a good motor if you got it before that happened and replace the seal. In any case, expect to put some money into it, unless it has already been done. It certainly needs new coils unless they have already been replaced. Get new ones here at iboats