Whats a good year 70's Johnson 50/55 HP?

[brizander]

I hope to see a few opinions from some here who know. I'm looking and waiting for a 70's era 50 HP to fall in my lap. Don't know a whole lot about them but I like Johnsons and need a 50 or 55 HP.

I see many of them available in various conditions and prices. I have read a whole lot on the boards here about what to look for. I'm not scared of doing a little work. I work on Jets but haven't turned one wrench on an outboard. Actually looking forward to gearing on one a bit.

What I'm curious about is if there is a particular era that is better than another. What years are better. Such as what year did they switch to thru prop hub exhaust? Is that better? Stuff like that.

I had a shot at a 71, 73, 76 and a 79 in the last few weeks and personally didn't know the differences between them other then the year. Maybe there is a good book out there I should get but there is quite a few of them. Just a good book recommend would help too.

Thanks a bunch. LOVE this forum.

BZ

 

[R.Johnson]

Re: Whats a good year 70's Johnson 50/55 HP?

They never made such a thing.

 

[brizander]

Re: Whats a good year 70's Johnson 50/55 HP?

They never made such a thing.

Never made such a what? I read in another thread the other night about someone talking about Johsnon thru hub exhaust. Maybe I was mistaken and it was another make. Evinrude? He was saying it was quieter. Not sure myself. I guess that proves why I posted the thread. Regardless, if anyone has any personal opinions on particular 70's Johnson 50 HPs I'd love to hear them.

Thank You

BZ

 

[JB]

Re: Whats a good year 70's Johnson 50/55 HP?

The twin loopers with mechanical shifting were all good engines. I am not aware of any being better or worse than any other in that period.

 

[brizander]

Re: Whats a good year 70's Johnson 50/55 HP?

Thanks JB

I was just looking thru a few threads about some of the hydro electric shift units. After reading that I'll definately look into what you recommended.

BZ

 

[R.Johnson]

Re: Whats a good year 70's Johnson 50/55 HP?

50-55 HP OMC twin, and good is a oxymoron.

 

[tx1961whaler]

Re: Whats a good year 70's Johnson 50/55 HP?

A 1973 40 HP is the best 50 HP

 

[brizander]

Re: Whats a good year 70's Johnson 50/55 HP?

Hmmm not sure how to take that.

BZ

 

[Brokeback Johnson]

Re: Whats a good year 70's Johnson 50/55 HP?

I believe that the loop charged twins were more susceptible to failure from over revving than the non looper engines due to the ported piston skirts. They all are of a sound design, however and should work well for you if kept within the correct rpm range.

 

[tx1961whaler]

Re: Whats a good year 70's Johnson 50/55 HP?

Hmmm not sure how to take that.BZ

I was halfway joking. I think that the 50's were overly complicated for the extra 10 HP, and I really don't like their ignition system. Pull up the parts list and see the parts that are not available, and the cost of those that are.

 

[brizander]

Re: Whats a good year 70's Johnson 50/55 HP?

Thanks BJ. Thank tx. Yeah I understand ya now. Good stuff to think about. Fortunately I have plenty of time to read, shop and make a decision. I will be getting my hands on an old Lund S18 console which is rated for 55HP. Gunna add some weight after I add decks, storage and equip. Smaller Johnsons/Evinrudes have always treated me well in the past. Just looking max rated HP for the boat and something reliable. I think a good book is in order. I just don't want to run out and get a decent motor and find that another year/model would have been a better choice.

Thanks for the help.

BZ