Seloc's Johnson/Evinrude Outboard by Clarence Coles, Joan Coles (1990, Paperback, Updated)

My budget wouldn't stand a new boat and motor, but used boats can be had for a fraction of the new price. My 1981 Johnson 35hp ran well, but the cooling water pump was weak. Not having experience with outboard repairs, but being reasonably handy with cars and bikes, I searched eBay for repair manuals and found this manual by Seloc's listed on half.com. There is a range of Seloc's manuals for the various makes, ages, and sizes of outboards.

The manual is broken down by chapters covering powerhead, cooling, electrical, etc. The various typical operations have step-by-step repair methods with photographs, along with exploded assembly drawings. Following the book, I was able to open the lower unit, and disassemble the water pump. I found the pump itself was OK, but that the hard rubber impeller was badly worn and needed replacement. Total cost of the repair was $10 (plus unpaid labor by me and my neighbor.) I expect I would have spent $100 to $200 at the marina, so the Seloc's manual paid for itself several times over on one repair.

I think the manual supposes a certain amount of previous experience for major operations and availability of tools, but there are also simpler steps in the book such as spark plug replacement, off-season storage, and general care that even a beginner would find beneficial. Like any repair manual, you need to use judgment at to what repairs you can tackle and what should be left to a professional.

I think the Seloc's manual is well worth it list price. I was able to buy it at a discount on half.com. I recommend Seloc's to outboard motor owners who want to do more of their own repairs, or who even just want to better understand how their motor works and how to give it good care.