1958 Johnson rds-20

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  • September 8, 2019 at 2:10 am #182882
    john8504
    Participant

      I picked up a boat with twin rds-20 motors on it. Boats in rough shape but I’m going to try and restore it. The motors are in just as rough a shape. Is there anything in particular I need to be careful of on these motors as I begin to attempt to get them running again?

      September 8, 2019 at 2:15 am #182883
      john8504
      Participant

        Also, does anyone happen to have any literature on this motor?

        September 8, 2019 at 8:41 am #182885
        frankr
        Participant

          US Member

          First of the “Super Quiet” Series. One of the most beautiful Johnsons in my opinion. I had one that I bought new in 1958. Ran the daylights out of that thing, water skiing etc.

          1958-Johnson-Super-Sea-Horse

          • This reply was modified 4 years, 7 months ago by frankr.
          September 8, 2019 at 8:43 am #182888
          lindy46
          Participant

            US Member

            Reliable and well built old motors. Check compression – should be 110psi+ on both cylinders and even. Check for spark – should jump a 5/16 inch gap on an open air tester. Most likely the coils will need replacing. Check gear lube and look for water intrusion. Plan on replacing the water pump impellers.

            September 8, 2019 at 4:09 pm #182901
            crosbyman
            Participant

              Canada Member - 2 Years

              this site …see URL on top….. will give you tons of service info ..

              posting a picture otherwise this site will poof it away for still unclear reasons

              click on the book stack …. then click on johnson ….. then click on red book

              print your needed info info to PDF file and off line printing

              Joining AOMCI has priviledges 🙂

              September 9, 2019 at 11:46 am #182947
              jeff-register
              Participant

                US Member - 2 Years

                Frank,
                Still have my 58 J. 18 E start & runs well after crank & gearcase seals.

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