[WhiteDog70810]

Due to interminable budgetary constraints, I am thinking of picking up a 15 hp 2 stroke Johnny-Rude because they are common, cheap and tough. I can’t seem to find a long shaft version that doesn’t need an overhaul under $1000. Short shafts in good condition often run ~$650. I am tempted to take a risk on fixer-upper.

While I could probably muddle through changing out a water pump and impeller, I am a terrible mechanic. How stupid (I know it is stupid; I’m looking for a ranking of stupidity on a scale of 1-10) is it to buy a non-running “it worked 3 years ago, but I haven’t had time mess with it” engine for $200 and give to a mechanic to figure out? If it doesn’t start, I can’t measure compression, so in the worst case, how expensive/feasible is it to replace the powerhead of a 15 hp outboard with a rebuilt powerhead?

Nate

 

[SomaliPirate]

My dad and I rebuild a seized 6.5 Evinrude (for sale here, somebody buy it!) when I was younger. We went slow, followed directions and kept my outboard mechanic uncle on speed dial and it went pretty well. I remember the carb actually being the biggest pain in the ass. Engine internals were actually pretty simple. I say buy one and try to rebuild it yourself. Worst case, it's still a POS and you can sell it for what you bought it for.

 

[firecat1981]

It doesn't need to run to check compression, just turn over. That being said, I bought an old 18hp for my old gheenoe, and after $300 of messing with it and realizing it will need much more I quickly realized it's cheaper to buy a running motor and pay the shipping.

Did you try places like smalloutboards.com?

 

[WhiteDog70810]

It doesn't need to run to check compression, just turn over. That being said, I bought an old 18hp for my old gheenoe, and after $300 of messing with it and realizing it will need much more I quickly realized it's cheaper to buy a running motor and pay the shipping.

Did you try places like smalloutboards.com?

I haven’t yet. I was looking on FB Marketplace.

Nate

 

[yobata]

Firecat is correct, you don't need the motor to run to test compression. If it is within 10% between cylinders you should be ok. I would say the worst thing is a seized up motor, so if you can pull the rope and it cycles, and compression check is ok, go for it. Also, you can "rent" a compression test gauge from Autozone/Bennet for free usually (maybe a refundable deposit). Also, I think you will find that learning the ins and out of that motor will serve you well. Remember: you can always post here and someone will chime in with help or a YouTube link for you

 

[Smackdaddy53]

I put a rebuilt powerhead on a Johnnyrude 15 15r75c years ago, it was simple. That motor is still on my buddies river boat, can’t kill it even with the stop button.

 

[devrep]

"When is it Reasonable to Rebuild an Outboard? "

when its a carbureted 2 stroke and you can do all the work yourself except sleeving or overboring.

 

[Guest]

"When is it Reasonable to Rebuild an Outboard? "

when its a carbureted 2 stroke and you can do all the work yourself except sleeving or overboring.

Amen!

 

[WhiteDog70810]

I had read that a motor should be warmed up prior to measuring compression for the most reliable results.

Brandon’s Garage on YouTube has a 15 HP Johnson rebuild series that makes it look too easy.

Nate

 

[WhiteDog70810]

I just found a promising motor. My wife will likely shoot me if I drag a project home; we are trying to keep each other focused on the current list projects, but none of those involve hunting or fishing. I’ll let you all know what happens.

Nate

 

[DuckNut]

Do it yourself.

Air, fuel, spark - boom

Add a computer and you are now a hostage.

 

[Smackdaddy53]

I had read that a motor should be warmed up prior to measuring compression for the most reliable results.

Brandon’s Garage on YouTube has a 15 HP Johnson rebuild series that makes it look too easy.

Nate

It won’t hurt to test compression on a cold motor to establish a baseline. Once the cylinder walls reach operating temperature the rings should seal better. When a motor is cold the rings are not well lubricated in the bores, hence the reason for warming a motor up before putting it under a load. Bottom line, if a cold motor shows compression issues they may improve as the motor warms up and that is when it really matters.

 

[Hunter_Allen]

My block hairline cracked on a Yam 70TLR. Debating what to do with it. Either try to find a newer block and replace it/sell or just find someone who wants the lower unit and the rest of it blown.
Thoughts?

 

[Guest]

My block hairline cracked on a Yam 70TLR. Debating what to do with it. Either try to find a newer block and replace it/sell or just find someone who wants the lower unit and the rest of it blown.
Thoughts?

Is the the Hunter Allen who's in the real estate business in Charleston?

 

[No Bait / Lures Only]

Do it yourself.

Air, fuel, spark - boom

Add a computer and you are now a hostage.

Hostage to IT bulls*hit

 

[Hunter_Allen]

Is the the Hunter Allen who's in the real estate business in Charleston?

Yes sir.