On 2 May 2007 07:39:30 -0700, volleybiggs
wrote:

I have a 1969 40hp Johnson that has been sitting for many years out of
the water. It is a relative's boat and when it was parked it ran fine.
It was parked due to the throttle cable breaking. The boat is 70
Glastron and in good condition but I am wondering what my first step
should be on getting on the motor up and running. Is there a good book
or manual anyone can recommend on buying? I work on my cars replacing
waterpumps, starts, etc so I can follow a manual on taking parts off
and replacing them.

Well, manuals are available - Seloc and occasionally you can find one
on eBay, but these are pretty simple two stroke engines - if you have
experience with two stroke engines this shouldn't be a problem.

However, Seloc manuals are good enough if you are a decent jackleg
mechanic.

What can be a problem is parts. A lot of shops don't stock parts and
you generally have to really search around for them. Forget it is you
lose a lower unit for one reason or another.

After a long time out of the water, you will probably need to work on
the cylinders which will require a teardown to ensure that there isn't
any scoring or rust on the cylinder walls. You will certainly need
new rings and crank bearings. You might be able to get away with a
little emory cloth to shine things up, but you will still need to tear
the engine down to determine what's what. That's going to take time,
but it's not a horrible job. Carbs will probably need rebuilding as
will any gas lines and any make/break devices on the engines
electrical systems.

You probably have your work cut out for you on this one,, not to
mention that it's probably going to cost you time and money.

It may not be worth it depending on it's condition.

Also have the option of buying a 55hp Chrysler for $200.

I'd stay away from this one even if it works fine. Parts are
impossible and to be frank, they weren't great engines to start with.