Will a service manual work for me?

[NakedDog]

Basically, I'm an idiot when it comes to motors...but want to become better. This is mostly due to lack of exposure and tinkering.

It's been suggested to purchase an original owner's manual for my 1996 Johnson 115, however I want someone's advice whether I will benefit from it. For example, do these manuals have lots of pictures and diagrams? ...or do they only refer to parts by their name? Are there step by step instructions for common maintenance and common repairs (i.e.: water pump replacement, etc.), or do they accomplish something else for the more seasoned mechanic (i.e.: electronics, inner workings, etc.)

I don't mind spending the money for something I will benefit from. I've also read enough here to only buy an original OMC manual.

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: Will a service manual work for me?

Original manual is the one for you.
My 2 cents.

 

[Mas]

Re: Will a service manual work for me?

The combination of an OEM manual and this forum will get you through! Just take it slow and ask lots of questions. Only the unasked questions are the dumb ones!

Mas

 

[mitchell6]

Re: Will a service manual work for me?

Get the original manal, but if it don't get you to what you need you can allways ask here plus with the manal you will know what to call what your putting on or taking off and the people here will be able to help you quicker

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Will a service manual work for me?

You used the term "Owners Manual" which is really of little use to you. It tells you how to operate the engine. It tells you nothing about how to perform anything other than routine maintenance. If you really want to learn what makes your engine tick, then you need a "Service Manual" specific to your engine. These manuals are available from the manufacturer of your engine. There are several aftermarket manuals but they generally cover a range of engines and do not provide the level of detail of the OEM (origninal equipment manufacturers) service manuals. Service manuals are well illustrated and yes, they do contain step by step procedures. Be aware though, that you will need a good selection of tools to work on an engine. And also be aware that some level of knowledge is assumed when these manuals are written. If you don't know a carburetor from a flywheel, you will need some other basic reading before jumping into a service manual.

 

[northernmerc]

Re: Will a service manual work for me?

At one point, we all started out knowing nothing about mechanical things. I do believe that there are things called "aptitude" and "interest." You need both to work on motors.

After a few nearly disastrous and very expensive experiences, a certain someone who lives in the same house as I do knows better than to touch anything mechanical.

If you really have no experience with mechanical things, start off by learning simpler tasks. You will soon discover if this is for you.

 

[1946Zephyr]

Re: Will a service manual work for me?

Factory service manuals are best for those who have less aptitude. They explain things more in detail than other manuals.

Myself, being one who had many years of mechanical aptitude, before tackling outboards, the Seloc Manuals have worked out fine for me. I have tackled many outboard repair jobs and didn't even have a need to open a manual.

So, bottom line is: It depends on your aptitude. Clymers and chiltons though are only fit to start my fireplace, I think.

 

[jonesg]

Re: Will a service manual work for me?

You used the term "Owners Manual" which is really of little use to you. It tells you how to operate the engine. It tells you nothing about how to perform anything other than routine maintenance. If you really want to learn what makes your engine tick, then you need a "Service Manual" specific to your engine. These manuals are available from the manufacturer of your engine. There are several aftermarket manuals but they generally cover a range of engines and do not provide the level of detail of the OEM (origninal equipment manufacturers) service manuals. Service manuals are well illustrated and yes, they do contain step by step procedures. Be aware though, that you will need a good selection of tools to work on an engine. And also be aware that some level of knowledge is assumed when these manuals are written. If you don't know a carburetor from a flywheel, you will need some other basic reading before jumping into a service manual.

Good catch, I made the mistake of ordering an owners manual for my 150, $44 for 39 pages of what I already knew just from looking at the engine.

The service manual is the best money I spent on my engine.

 

[NakedDog]

Re: Will a service manual work for me?

Thanks all...

I'll get one before the ice thaws!