I learned Sesloc Manuals are not the only reference, even for minor maintenance

[Acheron2010]

I ordered a new water pump kit for my 1980 Johnson 75. The Sesloc Manual was woefully inadequate in describing proper maintenance and use of gasket sealer when and where.
Best reference seems to be YouTube - can almost always find a video where someone has done something before you. Lesson learned.

 

[boobie]

You're learning. The best manual you can get is the OEM Factory Service Manual.

 

[Vic.S]

But how do you know if what you see in a You Tube video is correct or not

There is only one reliable source of info and that is the manufacturers workshop manual.

 

[juno pierrat]

8 dollar service manual online, not all years covered , good luck,

EDIT: Deleted link, copyright infringement. See rule #3..

 

[ChipnKim]

I found a website that offers factory service manuals in PDF's, which i prefer to hardcopy, but was suspicious of the security since i would have to order by debit. Has anyone ordered from an online source that is legit?

 

[gm280]

There is nothing that can compare to the original factory specific shop manual for basically anything. If you have any question about your OB engine, the answer will be in those manuals. After market manuals try to cover so many models in one manual, they are too general with the info. Just spend the money and get the source for your engine from the folks that built them... :thumb:

 

[oldboat1]

Agree with all of the above, but Acheron has a point. (Ask you son or granddaughter for the iPad instruction book.) iBoats is a huge site, and there are probably numerous incidental links to YouTube videos. But what if those great instructional stickies had YouTube or YouTube-styled links? Dependable video instruction done by the book, maybe with additional tips gained over 40 years....

Shoot, I would pay for access. Bet Acheron would too.

 

[ChipnKim]

That is what I am asking. Is there a reputable resource for the factory service manual in PDF format? I dont really want a hard copy to get wet or filthy (like my old Clymer and Haynes from back in the day). I've used the link provided by juno, i just don't get a good vibe from the site. Maybe i'm just overly cautious, i just don't want to drop my card info on a site i have no experience with.

 

[oldboat1]

no. that's different.

 

[David Young]

I'm new to boats and trying to learn all i can. I've learned so much from 'this Forum' and a lot of things from youtube. Do the factory shop manuals have a lot of pictures? I'm thinking of ordering one. (Sorry for the hijack).

 

[oldboat1]

Shop this site for stickies and FAQs, start a thread in an appropriate spot, check the AOMCI site, google your model number, outboard manuals, online manuals, etc. Bookmark the location when you get the hit your want.