This is my first Johnson and it runs way better than any motor I ever has (ALL MERCS before). It starts first turn of the key, and runs like a beast. I have a few questions if any of you Johnson guys can please help me out:

I had a good trip today, but at the launch failed to trim it up when trailering at low tide, I lightly scuffed the prop and the engine killed. It still shifted and ran fine afterwards. Got back and changed the lower-unit oil and had a few real fine shavings of metal on the screws.

Model:J115PLEEM
Year:1999

<U>Questions</U>: 1) There is a small hole on the side the gearcase, located about 2inches up and 2 inches to the left of the water pickup. Pure water drained out of it when trailered, is this hole normal?

2) Should I worry about the metal shavings that were in there? The previous owner used motor very little and probably hadn't changed it in a while.

3) On my merc when in forward the prop locks one way and ratchets the other, in reverse it locks both ways? Is it the same on a Johnson? Mine locks when turned a little both ways, both in reverse and in forward. It shifts fine, but I'm just paranoid with my new boat.

4) Man I sure love my new Johnson, and hope she is alright!!!