Old Johnson 3hp Fuel Question

[UncleJonny]

I have a 1967 3hp Johnson. I've been told it's not a good idea to run fuel with ethanol in this old motor. The gas station near me has non-ethanol fuel, but it's premium, higher octane. Is it ok to run 93 octane in this old Johnson? Thanks for the help!

 

[kfa4303]

Re: Old Johnson 3hp Fuel Question

Hi uncle jonny. While ethanol gas is not ideal, it's almost unavoidable. you can spend the extra for ethanol free/marine grade fuel if you want, but the extra octane won't make a difference. After all, 93 octane didn't exist when it was made. You'll also want to use 24:1 fuel oil mix for your model. This link may help.

3 HP Evinrude Johnson Outboard Tune-Up Procedure 1952-1967

 

[F_R]

Re: Old Johnson 3hp Fuel Question

The only thing in that motor that might possibly be damaged by Ethanol is the carburetor float and gas line (if it is rubber, which I think it is). The float can be replaced by a new fuel-proof one (part number 396514), and you were going to replace that old hose anyway, weren't you? There is no excuse why anybody would be making fuel hose today that is not Ethanol-proof.

Other than that, the argument about Ethanol vs non will go on forever. Don't get caught up in it.

 

[colbyt]

Re: Old Johnson 3hp Fuel Question

Replacing the carb float is probably a good plan. I suspect it is cork if it has not been replaced. Based on what I saw inside a 69 carb I don't imagine it works well if original.