I have a problem!

Chrism77

Seaman
Joined
May 5, 2013
Messages
55
I just got for free a sea nymph boat that needs a bit of work, one of the things is the motor. It is a Johnson 40hp. The engine parts seems to be in great shape, I have not tried to start it because it is missing all the parts from the motor to and including the prop. I have the lower head but nothing in it. I can't even find any kind of model number to identify it as the sticker is unreadable. I also don't have a key to start it. I don't have a lot of money but would like to get this running so I can do some fishing. I need help bad! Thank you for any you may be able to provide.
 

AEROCOOK

Master Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jul 28, 2004
Messages
872
Re: I have a problem!

Sounds like you need a lower unit. You really need to find the model number, if the tag is missing you can also get the info from one of the engine block plugs. Once you know what the model number is you can check the lower unit compatibility list so you know what to look for.
 

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Chrism77

Seaman
Joined
May 5, 2013
Messages
55
Re: I have a problem!

OK, I will check it out. I think I just fubared. I saw one on eBay for a good price that looked the same so I placed a bid.. after looking at it it is close but not the same. I just don't have the 600 to 1800 bucks I see them listed for
 

oldcatamount

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Apr 4, 2010
Messages
1,740
Re: I have a problem!

Check out the "Salvage Yard" post in the "Top Secret" file at the top of the forum list. There's a ton of good info in there as well as a list of places that can help you with the parts you need (once you get the model number).
 

Chrism77

Seaman
Joined
May 5, 2013
Messages
55
Re: I have a problem!

Oh thanks! When I look at the motor plug will the model number be on it or do I need that to find out what the info is?
 

oldcatamount

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Apr 4, 2010
Messages
1,740
Re: I have a problem!

The model number is on the plug. Should be all you need. When you get the number, post it on here and we can tell you what year the motor is.
 

Chrism77

Seaman
Joined
May 5, 2013
Messages
55
Re: I have a problem!

Where is the plug? On the head by the spark plug is 322898 on the manifold looks like 322850 on the part where the lower mounts is 322896
 

oldcatamount

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Apr 4, 2010
Messages
1,740
Re: I have a problem!

It's about the size of a quarter, made out of aluminum. It should be less than midway from the head to the carb.
 

oldcatamount

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Apr 4, 2010
Messages
1,740
Re: I have a problem!

I can't find anything with that number. Can you post a picture of what you've got?
 

Chrism77

Seaman
Joined
May 5, 2013
Messages
55
Re: I have a problem!

Keeps saying my files are to large I need to resize them but on the tilt I found this part number J40FLCR does that make sense at all?
 

oldcatamount

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Apr 4, 2010
Messages
1,740
Re: I have a problem!

If the "F" is actually and "E", the number means it's an electric start, long shaft, 1984 model.
 

Chrism77

Seaman
Joined
May 5, 2013
Messages
55
Re: I have a problem!

Thank you! now I need to find out about the lower head... any idea how I can get a key? I am guessing I need to replace the whole ignition.
 

oldcatamount

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Apr 4, 2010
Messages
1,740
Re: I have a problem!

I would suggest bringing the ignition switch to a Boat shop/Marina, It's possible they can make you another key. Worst case, you'll need to buy another switch.
 

Chrism77

Seaman
Joined
May 5, 2013
Messages
55
Re: I have a problem!

Is there a chart someplace to see what lowers would fit my motor? the one I bid on accidently is 40DE17B I would like to look it up and see if I am going to be stuck with something I can use
 

oldcatamount

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Apr 4, 2010
Messages
1,740
Re: I have a problem!

No chart (that I'm aware of). You'll just need to compare part numbers from a few years prior and a few years after '84. I'm sure they are basically the same but, don't guess and buy the wrong one.
 

Chrism77

Seaman
Joined
May 5, 2013
Messages
55
Re: I have a problem!

I am sorry for all the dumb questions I am still trying to figure all this out. I think I know the answer but would a lower for a 85 to 140 HP work? Mine is a 40 HP
 

Chrism77

Seaman
Joined
May 5, 2013
Messages
55
Re: I have a problem!

I guess I am looking for the whole unit and not sure what units interchange with my engine
 

Silvertip

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Sep 22, 2003
Messages
28,771
Re: I have a problem!

An 85 - 120 HP gearcase will not work on your engine for several reasons. 1) It is physically impossible to bolt it up. 2) it has the wrong gearing, 3) is a large gearcase (OMC has small medium and large size gearcases). You need to be looking for one for the year of your engine. 40 and 50 HP engines use the same lower unit. Try Twin City Outboards in Shakopee, MN. They will also be able to tell you what the model year range of lowers will fit.

Look at the ignition switch carefully. You should find a letter code somewhere around where the key is inserted. Take that code to any Evinrude dealer and they can get you a key.
 
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