I have a believe 1978 115hp Johnson outboard but by the model number I think it is actually a Evinrude. I have heard Evinrude and Johnson are like Chevy and GMC, same thing just different name. I need to get a new ignition coil and just making sure I get the correct one. And I am going to get a repair manual and making sure I get the right one.

I will add a picture but I got from a plat on the trim of 115899C? 1 picture is the motor cover, the second is the plate I found on the trim unit, and third is the ignition coil that I need to replace.

Google iboats

Way2slow is the guy you need to ask.

You have an Evinrude motor, Johnson motors use hp then letters instead of numbers like the Evinrude. Many parts are the same, ignition coil for a 78 is part number 0584561 for both makes. Crowley Marine website has part numbers and diagrams for most Johnnyrudes if you ever need one.

http://www.crowleymarine.com/omc_parts.html

Here's a link to the OMC part diagrams.

Edit: You can also buy the parts right from Crowley. Click the part number you want from the list at bottom and it will bring up a page with aftermarket options also. Crowley sells the Johnnyrude ign coil for 43, another aftermarket company has them for 37. I always buy Johnson/Evinrude parts because they will guarantee most of them for 1 year if you keep.receipts. went through 4 trim switches last year and only paid for one. May want to check to be sure they will do that for a 78 and also if they want it dealer installed or not.

Go here, http://epc.brp.com/Index.aspx?lang=E&s1=f7c27727-2fa4-4cb7-ad5e-7259868ba61b click on the pull downs until you find yours. I think you will find it's a 1978 115 Evinrude

Yes, Johnson and Evinrude were made by OMC, which folded the doors in 2000 and BRP bought it. Both motors were basically the same motor. You can compare part numbers between the two to make sure they will interchange, 99% of the time they will.

You might want to check the SN. on the data plate against the one on the block. There is always the possibility someone swapped out the engine mount. The SN on the block will be stamped into a recessed, round disc that looks like a freeze plug. Usually on the top of the rear part of the block