1979 6HP Johnson

[freebird95]

I have a 1979 6hp Johnson. It runs great, but I seem to have two problems. <br />1st: There is water coming out the rear-top of the engine. My neighbor stated that I needed a new gasket. Is this a major issue, or a 5 minute fix?<br />2nd: When I remove the engine cover, the engine RPM's etc. takes off! It runs a lot better, but bogs down when the cover is replaced. Someone told me that it probably is not starved for air, but more than likely has an exhaust leak. <br />Question: Are these two items something a novice can take on, or should I get it to a mechanic?<br />Thanks!

 

[JB]

Re: 1979 6HP Johnson

Howdy freebird.<br /><br />Welcome to iboats. <br /><br />Yes, they can be taken on by a novice that has the OEM Service Manual and a reasonable set of hand tools.<br /><br />The manual and the tools would cost less than getting a pro wrench to do it.. . and you get to keep the manual and the tools.<br /><br />Any one who tries it without the manual has a fool for a mechanic.<br /><br />Look up Ken Cook for the manual.<br /><br />Good luck.

 

[fireman57]

Re: 1979 6HP Johnson

number two is an exhaust gasket leak. Get a manual as you will have to pull the powerhead. Number one is a little more difficult. Could be a blown head gasket or someone might have tried to re-route the telltale or something else entirely. Water coming out of the rear top of the engine is a little vague. JB is correct in that you definitely need a manual.

 

[steviecops]

Re: 1979 6HP Johnson

Sounds like the water could be leaking from the thermostat housing.

 

[Xcusme]

Re: 1979 6HP Johnson

Two things come to mind about the rear-top water leak. Could be a head gasket or thermostat gasket leak. Either way, a manual is a must.

 

[freebird95]

Re: 1979 6HP Johnson

Thanks for the help!<br />I found Ken Cook and will probably order a manual.