Had to take the Johnson in for service

[1javelin]

Well, after some questions posted about problems I have been experiencing, finally took the ol' 200 in for service.  Getting pressure tested, spark output test, timing checked, new plugs, lower unit checked and probably re-sealed, a new thrust washer put in, and checking to make sure the hot foot wire is at full open throttle.  Sound about complete?  Probably going to run at least $450.   First got the boat last year and could put it over 70 on small water with 2 fishermen and gear easily, by the time Leelanau rolled around I couldn't get over 58.  Use to push 6300-6400 rpm, now pushing 5300.  Guess it was about time.  Learning all the time. 
What was the way you first learned how important basic upkeep is on your first boat?

[Bronze Back]

What was the way you first learned how important basic upkeep is on your first boat?

1Javelin,

As a boat owner (or 1st time boat owner) you "must" ask questions
about your new toy and how it operates , what can go wrong , what to look/listen for before it breaks down,and what maintenance you can do to prevent these possible break downs.Some model boats/motors might have quirks about them and you should learn what these are so you can look/listen for possible problems (when your boat is running at it's best you as the boat owner knows your boat better than anyone else) and if your boat doesn't feel/sound right ask questions of other similar boat/motor owners,outboard mechanics,or dealerships to learn the ins and outs of your boat & motor.So to answer your question..........
I learned from asking questions and because of doing so i haven't had any major issues.

On a side note............i did tell a dealer that i thought there was a problem with my lower unit,i thought it might be off (rubbing on housing)they told me it was nothing.Well 2-3 years later had lower unit replaced because of a bent shaft that got progressivly worse over time and only found this out when i took it in to have impeller replaced at different dealer.Remember what i said before? You know your boat better than anyone else and if you think something is off
don't take no for an answer until you feel confident your concerns are answered and addressed.

[1javelin]

Got the verdict the other day $5500 to replace the power head   That is not going to happen, so.  Talked to a friend in Florida, said he will resleeve and replace rings, pistons if necessary for around $2500   Still too much for now, so will jsut run it for now until it dies on me out in the middle of the lake, so if any of you happen to see a white Javelin with a smoking Johnson, or a guy jumping up and down waving like an idiot, it might be me needing a hand. 
  Well the Leakdown test failed, pressure test failed in 4 cylinders, and 1 of them wouldn't hold compression, only 2 good cylinders at 125 psi.  Lower unit prop seal was bad, replaced.  Spark plugs replaced.  Timing readjusted.  Fuel filter changed.  Looked pretty good he said except for the bad cylinders.  Run only the best gas in it, BP or Shell Premium only, w/ Sta-bil.  Only run Johnson Evinrude XD100 oil, full synthetic, top of the line.  Guess that's what happens sometimes when you can least deal with it.  Oh well.  Let you know how it progresses.

Jav

[djkimmel]

Sorry to hear... so many of us have felt your pain.

[motocross269]

 There are some pretty nice used outboards for sale on the bassboatcentral.com website.