Reply To: 1961 Johnson 40 (RDSL-23) stops pumping water

[jdunham]

Thanks Frank, I understand the harsh life of salt. Do you feel the same way for the freshwater use with a seasonal 1 week in the salt? I cant speak to its life before my father bought it but after that it was only those short trips once a summer most years.

The inner exhaust plate is the thinner SS type. Can these still erode and get pin holes? I would take the outer cover off to check it but I am fairly sure I will break several of the screws so have been hesitant to try it.

I had held off on pulling the head because it has good compression and I did not want to damage the head gasket. If an assessment of the condition of the metal at the liner and aluminum juncture is needed, I will take it off. This should also get me a better idea of the condition inside the water jacket.

Does my fairly good, matched compression readings of 120PSI give you any pause? should I hold off pulling the head?

This may turn into an educational experience in learning the water path in these motors even if it cant be saved. At this point I’m both frustrated and curious and want to know what’s going on even if it cant be fixed.