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Johnson Service Bulletin #914 - Crankcase Drains

Issued August 13, 1962, this bulletin distinguishes crankcase drain valve plates 378978 and 377196. Although the plates fit interchangeably, their drain holes differ. Johnson marked the 28 h.p. plate with red ink to help prevent installation of the wrong part.

Johnson Motors Service Bulletin letterhead
August 13, 1962Bulletin No. SB-914
Crankcase drains

SUBJECT:  Leaf plate & screen assemblies - drain valve.
         28 h.p. RX(L)-10 series
         35 h.p. RDS(L)-20 series
         35 h.p. RD(SL)-21 series
         40 h.p. RD(SL)-22 thru 24 series,
         40 h.p. RK(L)-24 series.

Figure 1 comparison of crankcase drain plates 378978 for 28 horsepower and 377196 for 35 and 40 horsepower
FIG. 1
Figure 2 identifies the red ink marking on 378978 and compares it with 377196
FIG. 2

Figure 1 illustrates the crankcase drain valve plate and screen assemblies used in the subject engines. At first glance they appear to be identical. Note, however, that the drain holes in part 378978 are slightly larger than the drain holes in part 377196. Although the plates are mechanically interchangeable, INTERCHANGEABILITY MUST BE AVOIDED!

To provide more accurate visual identification, the plate for the 28 h.p. engines has been marked with red ink, figure 2, to prevent mix-up with similar plate 377196.

This is another example of parts which appear to be alike in every respect, but are nevertheless different in the final results obtained. When servicing or replacing these parts on the subject engines, be certain you are installing the part specified for the engine being serviced. Remember, the drain valve plate with the red ink is for the 28 h.p. engines!

JOHNSON MOTORS
W. W. DeWees
Service Department
WWD:eb

NOTE:  Post on your RX, RD (35 & 40) & RK indexes.