Potential Johnson KA-39 purchase advice

[free1986]

First post. I have a fair amount of experience with OMC two cylinders from the late 1950s to 1970s. I’ve always been fascinated by the early open flywheel motors but they don’t seem to be common in my area (Southeast) and are usually way out of my price range. I recently found a KA-39 Johnson for sale semi local (1.5 hours each way to get it). The seller listed it as “Old johnson great for decor” I asked him to try to turn the flywheel by hand which he claimed to have never tried, he got back to me later and said it was totally seized. He had originally posted it for $325 now asking $200. I haven’t tried to negotiate yet. My questions are, is there much of a chance it can be freed and bores still in running condition? Are any of the parts like head gaskets available? As I assume I would most likely need to pull the head to get it free. Also, where does the asking price rank, and does it have anything close to that value in parts? While it looks cool, I would really want it to be a running engine.

• This topic was modified 4 years, 2 months ago by Mumbles.

[melugin]

While price is may be excessive to an AOMCI member, some folks might pay this much just to look at it. These motors, while quite serviceable do not command that kind of money at meets. If you are interested in one, come by and you can have one of mine which isn’t stuck.

[Mumbles]

KA series motors don’t have a removable head as the cylinders and head are one piece. The only gasket needed is the one between the cylinders and the crankcase, which can be easily made. Since these motors have a large rotary valve on the crankshaft, they require an 8:1 fuel mix.

[wbeaton]

The Johnson KA is a great motor. It is unfortunate that this one is stuck. It might free up with a little effort. On the plus side, it looks complete and in good condition otherwise. While it is not a valuable motor it will be fun on a boat.

https://youtu.be/W61VqN29LxY

Wayne
Upper Canada Chapter

uccaomci.com

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