Unknown 55hp Johnson boat restoration

Julien 4788

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
May 9, 2021
Messages
34
We disassembled the lower unit. Everything is in good shape took us just shy of 2 hours. Water pump is surprisingly good the impeller is super tight in the housing and flexible. No rust whatsoever inside the gearcase. we will try to source the seals and the one bearing we had to pull locally. Just a matter of getting the parts and throwing everything back together now.
 

Julien 4788

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
May 9, 2021
Messages
34

Finally finished. engine missing a little in mid range. Perfect at idle and Wot. might be running a little too rich. We will have toc check the plugs
 

Julien 4788

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
May 9, 2021
Messages
34
we set the idle needles to 1.5 turn and put new plugs in. Now running very good.

Switched prop from 14" 13P to 13.25" 17P. Gained 3-4 km/h and still pretty fast to get on plane. Since the engine is a short shaft and we cut only 4.5Inch out of the original transom on the hull. The smaller prop seams to enable us to make sharper turns without the propeller hitting air.
 

brodmann

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jun 17, 2008
Messages
426
Great Job!! Thanks for letting us share that project with you. The key to selecting a prop is to maintain the recommended RPM range in WOT. Too much pitch will wear the motor out quickly and too little pitch will allow the motor to over-rev, which is never good. Have fun with that boat!!!!
 
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