what lower units will fit ?

schuh

Cadet
Joined
Oct 1, 2003
Messages
23
I need a good used lower unit for my 1970 Merc 70HP longshaft. The parts manuals list the same gear housing assembly number (6038A6) for 50, 65 and 70 HP models from 1972 - 1979.

As i look in various ads for used lower units i find units advertised , saying they will fit my motor from newer and older models.

Question is: are the above models the only ones that will fit or am I missing others that will fit also ?

Thanks for any help you can offer

Bud in Panama City, FL
 

corm

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
May 12, 2000
Messages
1,241
Re: what lower units will fit ?

Hi,

Merc did not make a 70 HP in 1970.
I am guessing you have a 3 cyl 70 HP.
You will need a LU from a 3 cyl between 1972 and 1976 to get the correct gear ratio. 1.64-1 if I remember right. The newer 3 cyl 50 and 60 HP 50cubic inch engines will fit but they had a different gear ratio. 1.83-1 if I remember right.
I don't have any books anymore to look it up in. These would require a different prop. You should have some salvage yards around down there. See if you can find one and they will know and maybe even have one for you.
 

schuh

Cadet
Joined
Oct 1, 2003
Messages
23
Re: what lower units will fit ?

corm

talk about how a mistype will screw things up. Its a 1979 merc 70 HP.

No outboard junkyards nearby, but thanks for the advice.
Cheers
Bud
 

sschefer

Rear Admiral
Joined
Nov 13, 2008
Messages
4,530
Re: what lower units will fit ?

Be careful. I've been offered all sorts of l/u's that claim they will fit my 91 Mariner. Turns out there were only 88-93 that will fit it. I've even gone with some of the more reputable reman's and when I call they say, oh, you're right that is different than the Merc, nope it won't work.

Stick to your guns and don't get burnt.
 

corm

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
May 12, 2000
Messages
1,241
Re: what lower units will fit ?

Hi,

I hate typos. hehe
FL is a long state but I used to get parts up here from there.
Here are a couple.
http://www.marinepartsoutlet.com/
Mikes Outboards & Dicks Used Outboard Parts
(727) 576-1105
10248 San Martin Blvd
Saint Petersburg, FL 33702
I have never bought from these guys.
 
Top