1996 Johson 88 - first start after 5 years

[sixdoubleseven]

Looking at 17 cc with a 1996 Johnson 88 SPL. It was winterized after the 2005 season and that's the last time ran. Should I slap some muffs on it, add new gas and turn the key?

Do you guys recommend bringing it to a shop before forking over cash? I think I'm getting a very good deal on the boat.

This will be the my first personal boat. I grew up with a 17 boat with a 35 Mariner.

Are the 88 hp Johnsons of that era decent motors?

Thanks!

 

[JB]

Re: 1996 Johson 88 - first start after 5 years

Check the Top Secret file ^^.

 

[jshane39]

Re: 1996 Johson 88 - first start after 5 years

If its not been touched in 5 years, I would be going over the boat, motor and trailer with a fine toothed comb!

 

[emdsapmgr]

Re: 1996 Johson 88 - first start after 5 years

I'd be concerned about any fuel which may have dried up in the carbs after all those years. If you have any dried fuel in any carb passages, you could have a fuel restriction-causing the engine to run lean.

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: 1996 Johson 88 - first start after 5 years

Welcome to iboats.

Here's a great link that should help you.

http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=158086

 

[sixdoubleseven]

Re: 1996 Johson 88 - first start after 5 years

Update -

We fired up the engine on new gas to see what was up. It fired up without any problem. One bank of cylinders was running hot so we replaced both t-stats, one ended up being stuck open while the other was stuck closed. We also replaced the waterpump for preventive measures. Replaced plugs and wires (one or two were breaking away from the boot). It's running like a champ now. I'll be launching this weekend.