old 6 hp johnson seahorse

[fishwhisperer]

Hi all. I'm new to the forum and just looking for some general info on an old Johnson 6hp seahorse. The thing was in my father-in law's garage for about 30 years, but apparently he only used it a couple of times and it looks more or less like new. Never had an outboard before but real game to get this one running so any help would be much appreciated.

The model number is 6R 74C. Serial number is J3943785.

I found the point set on the engine, but was hoping to get a few answers to a few more basic questions.

Anyone know the year or how to find it? I checked a couple of websites and had no luck.

Is it true that it's fine to use unleaded gas?

What kind of oil should I use and what gas to oil ratio?

Do I have to relube the lower unit and if so how and is it pretty easy to do? What kind of lube?

Last - I read a few posts here and there on this forum that some of the older engines cannot handle the modern MTBEs and ethanol mixed fuels. Does that mean I should change all hoses and gaskets before I try to start it up or might I be ok? One post I saw suggested that only neoprene type plastic parts are a problem. If I do need to change gaskets and the like, any good ideas where to get them?

Again, any help would be great. Thanks.

 

[HondaPower]

Re: old 6 hp johnson seahorse

Not a lot of info but my listings show your model as a 1974 6 hp Johnson. Hope this helps a little.

 

[fishwhisperer]

Re: old 6 hp johnson seahorse

Thanks a lot Cadet. That definitely helps.

 

[JB]

Re: old 6 hp johnson seahorse

Howdy, whisperer.

Welcome to iboats.

Fuel mix is 50:1, 87 octane unleaded and TC-W3 certified outboard oil. That would be one pint oil to a 6 gallon tank.

Anyone who works on an outboard without a Service Manual has a fool for a mechanic. You need a manual. Try eBay or kencook.com.

That is a 1974 engine. It is not old. Would you call a person who is 33 old? Old for an OMC little twin is maybe 50 or 60.

You will definitely need to replace the impeller. Go to the Engine FAQs and read about bringing back a sleeper.

That is a truly wonderful little engine. Nobody ever made one better and there is still not one better. Treat her like the royalty she is and your grandchildren will thank you.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: old 6 hp johnson seahorse

that motor probably is just broken in. as JB said treat her right, and she will be around 40 - 50 years. even if it had been used, it would just be a teenager. parts list and engine diagrams are available online at brp-evinrude.com or brp-johnson.com. just follow the prompts to your motor.

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: old 6 hp johnson seahorse

They truly are an amazing motor. My dad had one I believe of 1960's vintage and it just went on and on. Enjoy it as it is in its infancy !!!

 

[steelespike]

Re: old 6 hp johnson seahorse

While 50:1 is absolutely right;these little sixes do have occasional failures when 50:1 is administered carelessly.Some suggest a fuel mix closer to 40:1.

 

[fishwhisperer]

Re: old 6 hp johnson seahorse

Guys - thanks a million. I spent a couple of hours reading through posts on the site and had a hunch I'd found the right place to help me out and you all proved that to be true. Really appreciate it. I'm sure I will be asking a few more questions along the way. Also good to hear it's such a great little engine. Hope everyone has a great weekend on the boats.