How to add alectric start to 1973 Johnson 20hp Model 20RL73

[leonardbaker1]

I have the engine listed in the subject line. Runs great and I like having it on my 69 aluminum fishing boat but I am experiencing rotator cuff problems. I have seen a few postings that indicate that I could add an electric start to my engine but no information regarding part #'s or other model engines that I could search for to find the part. My manual and searches only show oem information and this model apparently only came with pull start. There are teeth on the flywheel which I believe should allow for electric start. I know that there would be no charging which is not a problem for me.

If anyone out there could assist me with part information for starter, bracket etc that would be needed or... another engine model that I could take the starting items from I would appreciate it .

Thanks,
Lenny

 

[Chinewalker]

Check the parts list for the 25EL73A, as it will have the bracket/starter/etc. you need.

 

[racerone]

Any one of the 22 cubic inch models 18 / 20 / 25 Evinrude or Johnson from 1960 to 1976 came with electric start from factory or as a dealer installed item when new.----Find a donor motor with all the bits you need !

 

[F_R]

It might be difficult to find the parts---or you may get lucky. I don't understand where they all come from. It seems like there are more people looking for them than were ever made in the first place.

 

[Scott Danforth]

the cheapest, easiest, fastest and most fool-proof method of converting your motor from pull-start to electric start is a three step process as follows:

sell your pull start for small pile of cash
take small pile of cash, empty wallet onto it, creating slightly larger pile of cash
take pile of cash and buy a newer electric start motor.

not only is it cheaper, you can do the conversion in a few hours.

 

[oldboat1]

The starter mounting bracket is PN 0126256 — should fit 18s and 25s as well. Post a free add on the AOMCI classifieds, and see if somebody comes up with one.

Push button starting would be the simplest way to go — need an outboard solenoid and a transom box. An outdoor electrical box from Lowes or Home Depot will work. (I recommend mounting the starter button at the box.)

 

[RCO]

The brackets turn up on eBay from time to time, but they usually sell for several hundred dollars. Add in the starter, wiring, solenoid, switch, and you would be money ahead buying a motor that already has electric start .

 

[leonardbaker1]

Thanks to all. Using this information I was able to find a dealer on ebay who was able to provide everything I need for a very reasonable price. I can appreciate that selling my motor and purchasing another could be a good way to go. I have a history with this motor and it runs perfectly so I would rather stick with a known motor for now.

 

[racerone]

Yes , they are a fine durable motor and will outlast most owners with care and normal use.----Some of the new plastic junk with expensive parts will be long gone when your motor will still be running.----If the motor has history / favourite story then keep it going.-----Parts are cheap and readily available too.

 

[oldboat1]

Good luck with it. I've done a number of them (18s and 35s), and it's an easy conversion.