1978 Johnson 175 needs major work

[rjnorman2]

Something went out in our motor on vacation. There is no compression in the number one cylinder and it hangs up there when turned by hand. The local dealer says you have to replace the powerhead. That is a lot more than the boat is worth. Isn't it possible to have repairs done on the engine without replacing the whole powerhead?

 

[Dhadley]

Re: 1978 Johnson 175 needs major work

When you say the motor won't make a complete revolution and there is no compression in number 1, do you mean the piston doesn't move when you turn the flywheel? Anyway, here's a general rule of thumb -- If the block is boreable and the crank is good then it's a good bet it's rebuildable. Generally if you lose one or both then it's better to replace the powerhead. Only you can determine how much you want to put in a 1978 motor versus buying another whole motor. If you're sure the powerhead is what's broken, go ahead and take it apart. If you fix it, it's got to come apart anyway. And if you don't fix it, it doesen't matter. It doesn't take that long to pull it apart and know for sure.<br /><br />Good luck!

 

[JB]

Re: 1978 Johnson 175 needs major work

As usual, RJ, I agree with Dhadley. I think it is unlikely that rebuilding is worth the trouble and expense and I am sure that a new powerhead is not worth the expense. BUT what have you to lose by tearing it down? You have lots of experience to gain. If you do decide to rebuild it, that engine will become more YOURS than it could have ever been otherwise.<br /><br />If you decide to replace it, will what you have learned be worth the time and trouble to tear it down? Probably.<br /><br />Good luck and let us know what you do.<br /><br />Red sky at night. . . <br />JB

 

[rjnorman2]

Re: 1978 Johnson 175 needs major work

Thanks for the input - This could be a real learning experience for me.

 

[steury]

Re: 1978 Johnson 175 needs major work

If you decide to scrap it, give me a call. I have a 1978 Evinrude 175hp. Similar engines, and I could use some of the parts. I have had some of this "learning experience" already, but look forward to more.<br /><br />Thanks<br />Carl