Rebuilding my 1960 40hp Johnson

I recently bought a 1972 15' Cherokee that came with a 1960 40hp Johnson. Im trying to decide whether I should try to get it running or just save up to buy a newer model. What do you guys think? All I know so far is that it is not seized up and the previous owner said that it was running before he let it sit outside for a few years. Any help would be appreciated guys. Thanks

I would check the compression. If you don't have to go into the powerhead it could be cost effective to keep.

Thanks sixgun. I'll give it a shot. Can I check the compression without having my electric start? Like just with the pull cord? Probably a dumb question but I'm not exactly an outboard expert

RatherBFishin said:

Thanks sixgun. I'll give it a shot. Can I check the compression without having my electric start? Like just with the pull cord? Probably a dumb question but I'm not exactly an outboard expert

Click to expand...

Yes.

When you check compression make sure the throttle is wide open, if you don't you won't get an accurate reading.

Thanks for the responses guys. Helps a lot. If I were to get the owners manual would that be a good enough resource to walk me through rebuilding this engine? I'd really like to do it without taking it to a shop. I'd like to learn on this engine so my next one wont be such a challenge to work on.

RatherBFishin said:

Thanks for the responses guys. Helps a lot. If I were to get the owners manual would that be a good enough resource to walk me through rebuilding this engine? I'd really like to do it without taking it to a shop. I'd like to learn on this engine so my next one wont be such a challenge to work on.

Click to expand...

The antique outboard motor forum (https://www.aomci.org/cgi-bin/yabb2/YaBB.pl?board=askamember) is another good resource and someone may be able to help you out with a manual. Good luck.

I would also keep in mind if parts are still available.

All of your service parts are still available for that engine as well as many of the gaskets and hard parts.