1978 johnson 35 hp

[1955murman]

Hey I'm looking to buy a '78 johnson 35hp. The ad says its in good condition. I'm supposed to go look at it middle of this week and I'm just wondering what I should be checking. I've only ever worked on my smaller motors from the 50's and I don't know much about what to look for in regards to ignition stuff (electric start) etc. Also he wants $600 for it, is that a reasonable price?
any hints or tips are appreciated.
Thanks

 

[jasper60103]

Re: 1978 johnson 35 hp

Spark, compression and lower unit oil are the usual things to check. Take it for a ride is your best bet. Seems most problems are uncovered after the first trip to the lake. If in decent shape, $600 for a 35hp is a good deal in minnesota.

 

[1955murman]

Re: 1978 johnson 35 hp

how much compression should it have?

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: 1978 johnson 35 hp

compression tester are all different. but i would want atleast 100 psi up to 140, but the key is that both cylinders are with in 10 % of each other. look for discolored or pealing paint, sign of overheat, scared mangled nuts and bolts.

 

[1955murman]

Re: 1978 johnson 35 hp

Hey picked it up this past weekend. its actually a 78 evinrude 35hp. lots of spark 130 psi of comp per cylinder. only thing I'm having trouble with is the electric choke. not sure how its supposed to work. it has a toggle switch on the dash plate beside the key that is labeled choke. I don't know what is supposed to happen but the switch doesnt seem to do anything. The switch has 2 spade terminals on the back there's a black wire that is grounded on the ignition switch and a purple wire with a white stripe coming out of the harness from the motor. If anyone has any idea what I should be looking for let me know.
Thanks
Dave