1958 Johnson 35 hp RDS-20 wiring problems

[lafishngirl]

We have a 1958 Johnson 35 hp RDS-20 Outboard Motor on it's original alumacraft boat. We have just put in a new key switch. Pretty sure the hubby got the wiring wrong on rewiring the new switch. He wasn't able to save the old wiring since they self destructed on touch. I was gonna order an owner's manual to help with it, but wasn't sure if it would have the info I was needing in it. Could anyone tell me if this is what I would need or where to search to find that particular info? Thanks in advance, All the info I have found from everyone on here has helped us get our boat to the point we are at now. Ready to get her back in the water after years of being stored!

 

[Chris1956]

Re: 1958 Johnson 35 hp RDS-20 wiring problems

You can likely find a wiring diaghram on the maxrules website. Any of the big twin motors up until the mid 60s should be OK to use. Your motor has a dual magneto/point/condenser ign. The point wires are connected together to kill the spark.

 

[82rude]

Re: 1958 Johnson 35 hp RDS-20 wiring problems

correct me if im wrong guys.you need a marine key switch for a 2 stroke.a regular auto or 4 stroke key switch is not correct for that motor.

 

[HighTrim]

Re: 1958 Johnson 35 hp RDS-20 wiring problems

You need a switch with two M poles for the kill circuit.

 

[lafishngirl]

Re: 1958 Johnson 35 hp RDS-20 wiring problems

Thanks for the info. He said he's almost positive he used the right switch. He's gonna check it out when the weather participates. I'll let y'all know how it goes. Can't wait to hear it run again. It's probably been 20 years since we've had the boat on the water. I'm ready.

 

[HighTrim]

Re: 1958 Johnson 35 hp RDS-20 wiring problems

She looks great!

Is it original or painted? I have done a couple of them, great motors.