How to Start a Johnson Outboard

Johnson and Evinrude were both products of OMC and have similar starters.

If your Johnson outboard motor is less than 70 years old, it comes equipped with an electric starter. While starting your Johnson is similar to starting a car, starting a Johnson outboard motor has some serious differences. You might find the throttle on the gear shift, you won't find the ignition switch on the steering column, and if you grind away on the starter, you'll do more than run your battery down.

Instructions

1. Insert the key in the keyway on the motor below the front edge of the motor cover. Raise the twist handle on the right-front of the motor to the upright/neutral position.

2. Move the throttle/gear shift into the upright neutral position.

3. Turn the key all the way to the right, engaging the starter. Allow the starter to operate for no more than ten seconds, or until the motor starts.

4. Release the key.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't crank the starter for more than ten seconds at a time to avoid starter damage.