Home › Forum › Ask A Member › 1952- 58 Johnson or Evinrude 15/18 best years? › Re: 1952- 58 Johnson or Evinrude 15/18 best years?
Are there any years that are better than others, years with problems or weaknesses to avoid?
We will be going to look at a 1954 Johnson 15 in extremely good cosmetic shape with tank for $425,Has not run in a few years ,so of course it will need all the normal maintenance .
Any insights would be great.
Thanks, Jim PSB
Not sure, but I don’t think Johnson made a 15hp in 54…So, take some pictures of the engine you are looking at for us…
The only engines you might want to avoid are the 15hps in 55 and 56 that had the funky lower crankcase seals.
I guess any of the others would be fine, it all comes down to mechanical/cosmetic conditions you are looking for, paint scheme preferences, etc. Just remember that just because the seller wants a big price, does not mean the engine is in great mechanical condition…The opposite is true as well, just because an engine looks lousy, does not mean it is in bad mechanical condition.
I guess in the end, I would recommend the 57-58 18hp models by either Evinrude or Johnson.
One final note, these engines use the pressure tank set up, so it would be nice if a decent tank is included in the sale.