81 on an 85

[seang]

HI
i picked up a motor and outdrive complete from an 81 v6 3.8 will the outdrive work if i bolt it on to my 1985 intermediate housing.....i am concerned about the shift cables i know the mechanical shift cables are different than the ones on the 81 i Was told this unit was an 84 but on checking the serial numbers its an 81 and i Think i am stuck with it so can i use it or should i try and sell it
thanks
sean

 

[Howard Sterndrive]

there's no serial numbers on the lower unit, only the upper has numbers.
what you want to look for on the lower is a rectangular anode behind the 6 idle relief holes above the prop. Anode = 1982-1985 full mechanical shift.
No anode = 1979-1981 hydromechanical shift.

 

[seang]

I found that out the hard way purchased this 81 unit complete with motor the seller told me it was a 1984 but it is an 81
so I am stuck with it .....will this outdrive and shift cable work on my 84 ?
thanks for the reply

 

[Scott Danforth]

I do not think so. pretty sure you will have to sell your 81 and buy an 82-85 mechanical shift unit