Re: 7.5 Johnson / Evinrude
Okay - there are two distinctly different eras of 7.5 hp Johnrudes floating around out there. First generation began with Evinrude about 1950 and evolved through the 1950s, picking up Johnson in 1956 (same motor, different cowling & paint scheme). These were decent little motors, with the first few years having a neutral clutch and 180-degree reverse. Full gearshift and a remote fuel tank were added in 1954. The 1956-1958 versions were the most refined with full cowling sealing for silencing. Good little motors - my favorite is the 1955 Evinrude "Aquasonic" Fleetwin.
Second generation came along in 1980 to replace the venerable 6hp twins (design dated back to the mid 1950s). It was a completely new motor, top to bottom. Nice enough engines, but I see a lot with chewed up lower unit gears. Evolved into the 6hp and 8hp of the mid 1980s. Had quite a few plastic parts, too, which are prone to breaking and expensive to replace (if you can find them). I've had a few over the years and they have been decent motors...
- Scott
