Johnson / Evinrude 40 HP (E40DRLSCB, E40DTLSCS, E40DPLSCB, E40DSLSCS) Outboard Motor Specs
The Johnson/Evinrude 40 HP outboard lineup—comprising models E40DRLSCB, E40DTLSCS, E40DPLSCB, and E40DSLSCS—represents a high watermark in OMC’s legendary two-stroke outboard engineering. Engineered to deliver a robust 40 HP (29.4 kW) at 5500 RPM, these powerheads balance reliable torque with exceptional power-to-weight performance across both tiller and remote-control configurations. Weighing between 232 lbs for manual-start models and 240 lbs for power-trim variants, these mid-range workhorses built a reputation on quick hole-shots, rugged durability, and precision engineering. Today, they remain a top choice for vintage boating enthusiasts seeking quintessential OMC reliability and accessible marine power.
Johnson / Evinrude 40 HP (E40DRLSCB, E40DTLSCS, E40DPLSCB, E40DSLSCS) Outboard Motor Specs
| HP: | 40 |
| Models: | E40DRLSCB, E40DTLSCS, E40DPLSCB, E40DSLSCS |
| Full Throttle Operating Range RPM: | 5000 to 6000 RPM |
| Power: | 40 HP (29.4 kw) @ 5500 RPM |
| Idle RPM in Gear: | 800 ± 50 EMM Controlled |
| Idle RPM in Neutral: | 750 ± 50 EMM Controlled |
| Test Propeller: | P/N 382861 |
| Weight: | (RL) Models: 232 lbs. (105 kg); (HL, PL, SL, TL) Models: 240 lbs. (109 kg) |
| Lubrication (Engine Oil): | Evinrude/Johnson XD100, XD50, XD30; or NMMA TC-W3 certified |
| Engine Type: | In-line, 2 Cylinder, Two-Cycle |
| Displacement: | 52.7 cu. in. (864 cc) |
| Bore: | 3.601 in (91.47 mm) |
| Stroke: | 2.588 in. (65.74 mm) |
| Standard Bore: | 3.6005 to 3.6015 in. (91.45 to 91.48 mm) – to bore oversize, add piston oversize dimension to standard bore |
| Top Crankshaft Journal: | 2.1870 to 2.1875 in. (55.55 to 55.56 mm) |
| Center Crankshaft Journal: | 2.1870 to 2.1875 in. (55.55 to 55.56 mm) |
| Bottom Crankshaft Journal: | 1.5747 to 1.5752 in. (40.0 to 40.01 mm) |
| Rod Crankpin: | 1.3757 to 1.3762 in. (34.94 to 34.96 mm) |
| Piston Ring End Gap, Both: | 0.011 to 0.023 in. (0.28 to 0.58 mm) |
| Minimum Battery Requirements: | 640 CCA (800 MCA) or 800 CCA (1000 MCA) below 32 F (0 C) |
| Alternator: | 25-Amp fully regulated. Refer to Predelivery and Installation Guide for multiple battery applications. |
| Tachometer Setting: | 6 pulse (12 pole) |
| Engine Fuse: | P/N 967545 – 10 A |
| Thermostat: | 143F (62C) |
| Maximum Temperature: | 212F (100C) |
| Water Pressure: | 12 to 14 psi @ 5000 RPM |
| Ignition Type: | Capacitor Discharge |
| Firing Order: | 1-2 |
| Ignition Timing: | EMM Controlled |
| RPM Limit in Gear: | 6250 |
| RPM Limit in Neutral: | 1800 |
| Crankshaft Position Sensor Air Gap: | Fixed |
| Spark Plug: | Refer to Emission Control Information Label; Champion QC10WEP @ 0.028 ± 0.003 in. (0.71 mm) |
| Gear Ratio: | 12:32 (.375) |
| Gearcase Lubricant: | HPF XR Gearcase Lube; HPF Pro in high performance or commercial applications |
| Gearcase Capacity: | 22 fl. oz. (650 ml) |
| Shift Rod Height: | 20 in. (L) Models: 21.38 (543 mm) ± one-half turn |
| Shift Cable Stroke: | 1.125 to 1.330 in. (28.6 to 33.8 mm) measured between NEUTRAL and FORWARD |
| Fuel/Oil Control: | EMM Controlled |
| Starting Enrichment: | EMM Controlled |
| Minimum (High) Fuel Pressure: | 24 to 28 psi (165 to 193 kPa) |
| Minimum Fuel Lift Pump Pressure: | 3 psi (21 kPa) |
| Maximum Fuel Inlet Vacuum: | 4 in. Hg. |
| Minimum Octane: | 87 AKI (R+M)/2 or 90 RON |
| Fuel Additives: | 2+4 Fuel Conditioner, Fuel System Cleaner. Use of other additives may result in engine damage. |
| PT/T Lubrication: | Evinrude/Johnson Biodegradable TNT Fluid |
| PT/T Fluid Capacity: | 15.2 fl. oz. (450 ml) |
| Trim Range: | 0 to 15 |
| Tilt Range: | 16 to 65 |
Service & Maintenance Insights
Keeping these 40 HP outboards running at peak performance requires strict adherence to factory maintenance schedules and operational specs. Because these models feature an integrated Engine Management Module (EMM), idle speeds are electronically controlled to maintain 750 ± 50 RPM in neutral and 800 ± 50 RPM in gear. If the engine experiences idle roughness or misses, verify electrical system voltage and marine battery connections before inspecting fuel lines, as clean DC power is crucial for stable EMM function.
For routine ignition and gearcase service, inspect spark plugs regularly for carbon buildup typical of two-stroke oil lubrication and gap them to specification to maintain smooth operation across the 5000 to 6000 RPM full-throttle range. The gearcase lube should be drained and refreshed annually or every 100 operating hours—always check for metal shavings or milky discoloration indicating seal failure. If running load diagnostics or carrying out lower unit servicing, utilize factory test propeller P/N 382861 to ensure accurate performance calibration under load across all model configurations (RL, HL, PL, SL, TL).
Disclaimer & Information Notice: Specifications, fuel ratios, and maintenance guidelines listed on VintageMotorSpecs.com are compiled for historical reference and educational purposes only. Always verify data against an official OEM service manual prior to ordering parts or executing repairs. VintageMotorSpecs.com assumes no liability for repair errors, equipment damage, or personal injury resulting from the use of this data.
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