1977 merc 20hp making short to long shaft

[twindad01]

I have a 1977 short electric start and a 1968 electric start long shaft i want to make the 1977 a long shaft will the partsfrom the 68 work? Any or all of them? Or what years and hp range will work any help would be appreciated

 

[Chinewalker]

The 1968 will have a carbon steel driveshaft that, if it isn't already, will rust below the water pump and allow water into the gear case. It was along about mid 1970s when Mercury got on the Stainless Steel bandwagon with their driveshafts. I believe 1973 to 1977 will be a direct fit. 1978-1980 should work, too.

Even if you do use parts from the 1968, you'd need to swap shafts around, as the lower units are different - opposite shift patterns. I believe the switch over for shift pattern was about 1971.

 

[Faztbullet]

Want to sell the starter??????

 

[GA_Boater]

Want to sell the starter??????

Now, Now, Faz.

 

[flyingscott]

They make a conversion kit for that motor if you can find it.

 

[twindad01]

Thanks for the info chinewalker. I believe I'll hang on too the starter lol. What hp and years was the conversion kit? I just saw a extension kit but it was for a 5hp i think.

 

[flyingscott]

pretty sure the conversion kit only fits the 200/20 hp It has been a long time since i have seen one.