1959 Johnson 5.5 Flushing question

[AzogNewOrleans]

Just got this motor, is it safe to run this old lower unit with a Water Flusher/ garden hose type? I read never to run these old motors out of water, ie: in a garbage can or such full of water. Which is right? Can I use the flusher/hose or not?

Thanks, Dan

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: 1959 Johnson 5.5 Flushing question

If you have the proper flushette, sure. However, I'd recommend that you use a trash can and have the water level a few inches higher than the water pump area.

 

[AzogNewOrleans]

Re: 1959 Johnson 5.5 Flushing question

Thanks Joe

Just bought this motor, anxious to fire it up and see how it runs. Can't afford a new outboard so I don't want to mess this one up.

Dan

 

[F_R]

Re: 1959 Johnson 5.5 Flushing question

Thanks Joe

Just bought this motor, anxious to fire it up and see how it runs. Can't afford a new outboard so I don't want to mess this one up.

Dan

What Joe said is correct. What Joe didn't say is what a proper Flushette is. It is a device that clips over the water intake screen on the leading edge of the underwater exhaust snout. It is a pretty rare item that hasn't been made for years. Earmuff flushers won't work.

 

[AzogNewOrleans]

Re: 1959 Johnson 5.5 Flushing question

Thanks FR, I am glad you posted additional information, I bought the newer style but I was looking at the screen behind the prop and wasn't sure if the side inlets were the right ones to use. It would have been a disaster using what I bought. So it's off to the hardware store tomorrow to buy a metal trash can or stuff to make a stand and a barrel of some sort. The motor came with a Johnson outboard stand but not sure if the motor can be run on it or if I need something more sturdy.

Thanks, Dan

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: 1959 Johnson 5.5 Flushing question

A large plastic trash can would be better. If prop engages plastic.... no big deal. If prop engages metal.... ouch $$.

 

[1946Zephyr]

Re: 1959 Johnson 5.5 Flushing question

Just be careful you don't get water up the tailpipe of that motorcycle.

Motors like that, I always use a barrel. I have actually seen one of those flush attachments, but it's been years. I do believe that kind works on all the Type 1 Split lower units up to 40hp, don't they?

 

[CaptainHook]

Re: 1959 Johnson 5.5 Flushing question

Just put it in a can and run it, make sure the water level is high enough though when running and be sure to watch the small discharge port on the front of the motor's mid section. After running for a few seconds this should start spitting some water out. If is doesn't stop running it as your not pumping water!!!!

You can find those old motor flushers on ebay. Tempo marine made alot of them. But the can or barrel is the safest bet.

 

[AzogNewOrleans]

Re: 1959 Johnson 5.5 Flushing question

Went the barrel route just now. Motor started on the third pull. First time I've seen this motor run, bought it on word of previous owner. Really glad it runs fine. This is the Frankenstein motor which was being discussed in another thread. It is a 1978 6 hp top end attached to a 1959 5.5 lower unit. Runs great.

Thanks for all the help, soon as my boat number comes in from the State I am back fishing.

Dan

 

[dougandmel]

Re: 1959 Johnson 5.5 Flushing question

I have a question regarding the picture posted by F R. Above the cavitation plate is a silver cover with 4 holes in it that is held on by two screws. My 10 horse has the same setup. What is this for? Auxiliary water intake? Thanks.

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: 1959 Johnson 5.5 Flushing question

Doug..... That's exactly what it is.

 

[1946Zephyr]

Re: 1959 Johnson 5.5 Flushing question

Yep, all Type I split case lower units have that. It is a second water pick up.

 

[dougandmel]

Re: 1959 Johnson 5.5 Flushing question

I figgured that's what it was. I just thought i'd ask and find out for sure. Thanks.