Year ID on Johnson 5 1/2 HP

[Ownsbud56]

Everyone on this site is always helpful when a year of manufacture is needed! 5 1/2 HP Johnson Model#CD21A, Serial#J2421287. Thanks Again!<br /><br /> Ownsbud56

 

[Paul Moir]

Re: Year ID on Johnson 5 1/2 HP

It's a '64. Good engine with one minor annoyance: you have to remove the engine to service the impeller. Some other info:<br />Fuel/Oil mix: 50:1. Use 87 octane fuel and TC-W3 outboard oil. <br />Spark plugs: Champion J6C (replacing J6J) gapped at .030"<br />Lower unit fluid: OMC/BRP "HiVis" or equivalent 90 weight outboard gearcase oil.

 

[Ownsbud56]

Re: Year ID on Johnson 5 1/2 HP

What a quick response Paul! Thank you very much for the information! The removing the engine, to service the impeller, part sounds kind of scary! Is this quite a chore for someone with average mechanical ability? ( Basic changing of fluids/General tune up and maintenance duties!) Thanks!<br /><br /> Ownsbud56

 

[Paul Moir]

Re: Year ID on Johnson 5 1/2 HP

Your welcome!<br /><br />No, it's just another step. It's a simple engine so it's no more difficult than popping the fuel line off the carb, unbolting the engine and pulling it off. This gives you access to the shift rod coupler so you can drop the lower unit. I think it was a make work project for their dealers. <br /><br />They fixed that in '65 when they revamped the 5.5 as the 5hp (LD series) and the 6hp (CD series). Really it's no more work than pulling the lower unit, just more of it.<br /><br />Powerhead gaskets are available cheap, both aftermarket and OEM.

 

[Ownsbud56]

Re: Year ID on Johnson 5 1/2 HP

Thanks again Paul! It sounds like something I might be able to handle if the need arises! I also have a 1963 5 1/2 Evinrude. Does it have the same situation with the way the impeller is replaced as the 1964? Ownsbud56

 

[Paul Moir]

Re: Year ID on Johnson 5 1/2 HP

Yup, it's a common feature of all the 50s-60s 5.5s and 7.5s. The 5.5hp powerhead base gasket is aftermarket 18-2901 (pkg 2), 313065 OEM.

 

[Ownsbud56]

Re: Year ID on Johnson 5 1/2 HP

Thanks again Paul! This sight and your help is greatly appreciated! I am sure I will asking for everyones excellent advice again when I start to repair these motors! Ownsbud56

 

[tin knocker]

Re: Year ID on Johnson 5 1/2 HP

Paul, does this mean that the pre 65 lower unit will not fit on the 65 or later 6 hp Evinrude Fisherman?<br /><br />Rollie

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: Year ID on Johnson 5 1/2 HP

I believe Paul posted this site awhile back. Good info for working on the 3 HP/5.5 HP motors of that vintage...<br /><br /> web page

 

[tin knocker]

Re: Year ID on Johnson 5 1/2 HP

Thanks. After perusing the article and pictures things have become clear. Very good and detailed article.<br /><br />Rollie

 

[Ownsbud56]

Re: Year ID on Johnson 5 1/2 HP

Thanks Rick! The site you listed is extemely helpful! After looking it over, it answered a lot of questions I had! I believe I will be able to go through the 63 & 64 5.5's with the aid of that site! Thanks again to all!<br /><br /> Ownsbud56