What year did OMC stop using the electric shaft for the lower units.

[frobotz]

I am going to repower my fishing skiff later this year. Been looking for OMC motors 48 50 and 55hp and I recall some have an electric shift solenoid for the lower units I am trying to avoid that setup if I could Any pointed on what year they did away with it?

 

[racerone]

The 3 cylinder motors had Hydro- electric shift from 68 to 1972.-----The 50 hp 2 cylinder motors had it in 71 and 1972.------Nothing wrong with those units and actually they were very good and reliable too.-----Much misunderstood units.

 

[jimmbo]

they were very good and reliable too.-----Much misunderstood units.

Agree 100%

 

[F_R]

Agree 100%

Agree also. For some reason, the solenoids have gotten a bad rap. They rarely give any trouble. The #1 problem with the Hydro-Electric lower unit is negligence. The gear oil MUST be changed as a preventative maintenance item. Microscopic grit in the oil fouls the shifter piston in the oil pump. #2 problem is 45 year old rotted wiring.

 

[jimmbo]

#2 problem is 45 year old rotted wiring.

Only 45 yrs? Practically brand new

 

[frobotz]

THANKS EVERYONE