94 200 HP Johnson motor, Powerhead problems?

[Down South]

I'm thinking about buying a 94 model Bascat boat powered with a Johnson 94 model 200 HP motor. I'm told that the motor has a new power head. I didn't think much about this till I talked with a friend who knows someone that owns a 200 Johnson (year model unknown) that has had to have the power head changed twice. I know back some years ago that the Johnon 50 or 60 HP motors were having a lot of power head problems and I was wondering if any of you knew if these motors are having some type of cronic engine failures.

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[Dhadley]

Re: 94 200 HP Johnson motor, Powerhead problems?

All the closed deck motors are basically the same and not that much different from the open decks. If they are set up and run properly they are very good engines. Of course any engine is only as good as it's set up and maintance. We have raced many of these motors (very successfully, thank you) and they are screamers. I would be more concerened about the powerhead for now. Is it indeed a new one, a remanufactured one or a rebuilt one. Find out whose it is and exactly what was done. <br /><br />I've preached this before but it's important -- FRESH 87 octane with GOOD oil, Champion plugs and 5800 RPM (average load) and it should live a long time.<br /><br />Good luck!

 

[JB]

Re: 94 200 HP Johnson motor, Powerhead problems?

Howdy, Down South. You can't go wrong following Dhadley's advice. A note to add: For every powerhead that requires replacement there are probably three replaced. The other two need overhaul or something far less expensive and complex. It is the shop that needs a powerhead replacement to keep it alive or simply to meet profit goals. In no field is the motto "Caveat Emptor" more appropriate.<br /><br />Don't misunderstand. Most legitimate wrenches in this business are honest and reliable. Your challenge is to identify them and avoid shadetree "Maggot Motors" operations that want all your money now and don't care if you never come back.<br /><br />Red sky at night. . . <br />JB

 

[Down South]

Re: 94 200 HP Johnson motor, Powerhead problems?

Thanks Fellows,<br /><br />I'm sure if there was a power head problem common to these motors one of you would have known about it. By the way, the power head is new. I know where the boat is coming from and it has been well maintained, (BassCat Dealer maintained).<br /> I have several motors and always use manufacture recomendations expecially on oil and gas.

 

[mikec]

Re: 94 200 HP Johnson motor, Powerhead problems?

Dhadley and All, Howdy from up north. What is a "closed deck/open deck" motor? You mean inboard/outboard? Ahhhhhh must be, but since Ive already typed this.. off it goes...