Johnson Outboard Identification

[SunSurfSandwich]

I posted this question on the Classic Aquasport forums but there isn't much traffic on that forum so I figured I'd try here.....

I just purchased a 1998 Aquasport 175 with a, what I believe to be, 98 Johnson 90hp. The mechanic is telling me that the outboard is not a '98 90hp but a '90 90hp. The engine cowling says 112 SPL but the engine identification tag comes back with a '98 90hp (which is what I'm thinking it is). Please help if you have any idea. The mechanic has my carburetors and swears the '90 90hp kit fits so he "must be correct". Thanks in advance. Pictures attached.

 

[SunSurfSandwich]

I'm going to check the freeze plug later today but I'd appreciate any opinions.

 

[racerone]

The ---EC-----makes it a 1998 model.----The last production year of these crossflow motors.----This motor does not show the big red plug on the wiring harness.----That was last used in 1995.-----You might want to ask this MEKANIK on some facts on these repair kits as they are the same from 1980 to 1998.----Perhaps find another mechanic if he is confused on something as simple as carburetor kits !!!----It is an easy task to install these carburetor kits.-----And why are we installing carburetor kits ???-----Are you having issues with this motor ?----What other trouble shooting was done?----Be a shame to spend big beer tokens on carburetor work only to find that it still runs the same !!

 

[SunSurfSandwich]

Thanks. I figured the identification tag was pretty trustworthy but thought it was possible the previous owner could have switched powerhead possibly. The mechanic kept pointing to the "model year" part on the lower tag saying "it says 1990 right there". I countered with "maybe that's an 8, not a 0" but he was adamant. He told me my carbs should be rebuilt as engine was holding idle after adjusting carbs. I agreed (I planned on having them rebuilt regardless for peace of mind) and he removed them from engine. He then called when he got home and said carbs appeared to have been welded so he couldn't guarantee performance after rebuild. I went ahead and ordered some clean, fresh-water used carbs off ebay just to start fresh. I just don't want to dump money on unnecessary repairs. Motor had 115lbs of compression across all cylinders, started right up, and was pumping water like it should but I'm afraid I'm being taken advantage of after saying "it's my first boat". Thanks again for the help.

 

[racerone]

Carburetors were welded ???----Never heard of that before.----These carburetors are plentiful and reasonable priced in my neighborhood.----No need for drastic things like welding !!!

 

[SunSurfSandwich]

That's exactly what I said. What could have happened to a carburetor for someone to need to weld it? He replied with "I dunno". And I agree with your statement about replacement carbs. I was able to find several carburetors on ebay and other sites after I got off the phone with him.