September 19, 1963
SUBJECT: TILT ASSIST SPRING
1958 and 1958 JOHNSON 50 H.P. models incorporated a heavy coil spring in the swivel bracket to provide easy tilting of the motor for beaching, propeller changing, etc.
The spring is extremely powerful and will practically tilt the motor by itself. The energy stored in the spring is very helpful when tilting the motor on the boat, however, without a safety device this energy can be dangerous if released with the motor off of the boat. 1959 models were equipped with a safety latch on the starboard stern bracket and 1958 models should all have been modified with a stern bracket kit. Without the safety device, accidental release of the tilt lock with the motor off the boat allows spring tension to snap the transom bracket upward and injury may result.
Stern bracket kits, Part No. 377846, are still available no charge from the factory, and we strongly urge you to install them on any 50 H.P. models you have for resale that do not have the safety latch. Send your request for this kit to the factory Service Department along with model and serial number of the engine on which it is to be installed.
Installation instructions are furnished with #377846 assembly which include a claim form for labor reimbursement. The factory is no longer paying labor for installation of #377846 assembly. Therefore, disregard this segment of the instruction sheet.
Also be sure the caution plate decal located on the front of the swivel bracket is legible. If not, new ones are available from your Parts Distributor as follows:
Caution Plate - Part No. 305761 - $.10 each.
JOHNSON MOTORS
Robert Compton
Administrative Assistant
RC:eb
NOTE: Post on your V-50 H.P. Index.