1972 Johnson 85 lower unit question

[sadlerracing]

Just picked up a boat with a 1972 Johnson 85 outboard on it. The guy said is has electric shift issues. My question is would a lower unit off of a 1969 Johnson 85 work on the 1972 motor? I have one so that's why I ask

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: 1972 Johnson 85 lower unit question

If the bolt hole alignment is the same (and it should be)... bolt it up. You may encounter a alight difference in gear ratio but that's something you could live with.