20 hp johnson

[joe409]

hi guys i'm new here.I was given A 1973 20 hp motor 5 years ago.It's been sitting around all this time.Though I see if it runs and it dose.But it won't shift into gear.The shifter moves and I took a side cover off and can see the shaft move up and down.Is it worth fixing?Don't wont to put to much money into it just wont to sell it.Is there any value to it? I see them selling for 500 to 700.I work on cars not boat motors should I go for it. thank you all for any help.

 

[F_R]

Re: 20 hp johnson

Are you sure the lower half of the shift rod is moving up and down? It would be pretty difficult for it to not shift if that is moving. Would have to be some serious damage in the lower unit. Or else somebody has had it apart and left all the goodies out of it.

 

[wbeaton]

Re: 20 hp johnson

Second to what FR said. If the lower rod is moving fine then its possible that the shifter linkage inside the lower unit is broken. Its rare, but I have seen a broken shift cradle.

 

[joe409]

Re: 20 hp johnson

All I can see is where there are 2 screws that hold the top and lower rods.They are so tight ill have get a inpack screw driver on them.But i can see the rod move.I was going to loosen them and push it down but broke driver tip.Is this the way to gr pull the bottom off or a wast of time.Also if its in gear will the prob not turn

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: 20 hp johnson

well to pull the lower off you have to disconnect that linkage. so either way the linkage needs to come undone. i have a good connector sitting on my desk.

 

[wbeaton]

Re: 20 hp johnson

It sounds like the shift rod is connected and moving. You could just turn the motor upside down and remove the skeg to inspect the gearcase.

 

[F_R]

Re: 20 hp johnson

Joe, you just got me even more confused than I normally am. You just said that when it is in gear the prop will not turn. I though the original question was that it would not go into gear. Are we sure we are in the same boat?

 

[joe409]

Re: 20 hp johnson

Found the problem.I took it all apart (no grease in it )the pivot pin is gone.Everything looks good gears move A little tight think putting lube back in it will help that.Took impeller out it looks ok should i replace anything when im in there.Thank you all for your help will get parts next week.

 

[HighTrim]

Re: 20 hp johnson

If it has been sitting for 5 years (that you know of) I doubt the impeller is any good. I wouldnt leave an impeller in a running motor for more than 3, nevermind letting it sit for 5 unused years. It will definately come apart on you during operation causing catastrophic consequences. Change the lu oil, new gaskets on the drain and vent plugs, re grease the splines on the drive shaft before re attaching the lu.