How hard is it to swap out an engine on a transom?

[kayaker58]

Hi folks -- Thanks largely to the help you folks provided to my previous question, I now have my 25 HP Johnson working in tip-top order. But now that the engine runs fine, I have discovered the ugly truth: a 25 HP engine is just too small to power my boat very well (14' Wahoo). Clearly, I need something in the 50-60 HP range to pull a skier, or do other things that involve more than putt-putting around the lake.

I have run across a 60 HP Johnson for sale, and although I haven't checked it out yet, the seller's description over the phone sounds promising. Here's the question: how difficult would it be to remove the 25 HP engine from my boat's transom, and install the 6o HP? Could the existing OMC controls connect to the 60, or would I have to install a new set of controls? Looking at the throttle, choke, and steering mechanisms on the boat, it doesn't look like it would be all that difficult, but I know that outward appearances can be deceiving and if I buy the 60, I don't want to get partway through the job, only to discover I'm way over my head!

Thanks for your help with my earlier questions, and thanks in advance for your help with another of my newbie questions.

 

[Daviet]

Re: How hard is it to swap out an engine on a transom?

You didn't mention what model 60hp, hopefully not one of the old big ones. You will havt swap out controls, hopefully the engine will come with the controls. Make sure that the transom height is correct for the engine, short or long. It shouldn't be a hard switch, just remove the 25 and controls and mount the 60, they will attach a little different. What type of steering do you have , will it adapt to the 60hp?
All that being said, what horse power is the boat rated for, a 60hp on a 14' boat might give you a wild ride.

 

[hidef]

Re: How hard is it to swap out an engine on a transom?

Not knowing what model 25 you have and what model 60 are looking at makes this very difficult to answer. If they are from the same model year and both electric start all you have to do is remove the 25 and bolt on the 60 and hookup your cables and away you go. If they are completely different vintages it could mean installing new controls changing the steering etc etc.

 

[kayaker58]

Re: How hard is it to swap out an engine on a transom?

Thanks for the replies so far guys. My boat (actually 14' 4") is rated for up to 60 HP. I fully understand the dangers of having an overpowered boat, and the truth is that I'd prefer a 50 HP, but so far all I have found is the 60.

The model number for the 25 HP engine that's currently on my boat is J25ELESE. Unfortunately, the seller of the 60 hasn't given me the model number of that engine, so I don't yet know if the shaft length will match. Judging from the photo on Craig's List, the stylying of the cowling is the same as my 25 so I'm guessing they're close to the same model year, but obviously I'll need a lot more info before I know if it will match my boat. I do know that they are both electric start. (The seller appears to know even less about outboard motors than I do, which may not be a good sign!)

If it turns out that the engine is a match, I'll need some guidance on evaluating the condition of a used outboard, but if/when I get to that point, I'll start another thread.

 

[194269]

Re: How hard is it to swap out an engine on a transom?

The old "60" is a V-4 and I would stay away from it, heavy, loves fuel, and some parts may be harder to find. The newer "60" is a three cylinder, lighter, uses alot less fuel and parts are easier to find.

 

[kayaker58]

Re: How hard is it to swap out an engine on a transom?

I finally heard back from the seller. The model number of the motor that's for sale is J60ELCTB. He told me it's an'85, but the model number suggests it was built in 1983. Does anyone foresee any complications with connecting this motor to the controls for my present motor? (model # J25ELESE)

 

[freddyray21]

Re: How hard is it to swap out an engine on a transom?

the throttle and shift cables will most likely switch out fine. Most likely have to swap the electrical. Not hard to do however.

 

[Daviet]

Re: How hard is it to swap out an engine on a transom?

Just make sure you get the control box and wiring harness for the 60hp when you buy it. Then no matter what you will have what you need for the swap.