Please help decode this 20R72 (72 Johnson 20 horse)

Hello all,<br />I am new and just need a little help to resolve an issue. I sold the above listed engine on Ebay and the person that bought it has been told by somebody that it is a long shaft and I listed it incorrectly as a short shaft. Now he is convinced I mislisted it. I have called a couple places that have agreed that its a short shaft and I am 99.9 percent positive that 20R72 states short shaft 20 horse for 1972, and if it were a long shaft it would have the part number 20RL72. L for long shaft. It also has not been converted with the extension piece at the bottom. So I would like to use this as a place where he can view the responses to this question. Also here is a link to the auction if you wish to see a picture of the motor also. http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=26454&item=24044 83881&rd=1<br /><br />Please help resolve this for us.<br />Thanks alot<br /><br />Bob

Re: Please help decode this 20R72 (72 Johnson 20 horse)

What is the measurement in inches from the inside of transom bracket to the anti-ventilation plate on lower unit? 15" = short shaft. 20" = long shaft,and 25" = X-long shaft.

Re: Please help decode this 20R72 (72 Johnson 20 horse)

I agree with OB. By looking at the picture, it looks like a short shaft. It would have the extension piece if it were a long shaft.

Re: Please help decode this 20R72 (72 Johnson 20 horse)

Bob<br /><br />It sure looks like a short shaft. There is no exhaust housing extension. If it is a 20R72 on the motor, then it's a short shaft. You are correct in saying that it would have the "L" in the Model number if it were a long shaft(20"). The models for '72 & '73 models are as follows:<br /><br />20R72 Johnson 1972 20 4500 (Short Shaft)<br />20RL72 Johnson 1972 20 4500 (Long Shaft) <br />20R73 Johnson 1973 20 4500 (Short Shaft)<br />20RL73 Johnson 1973 20 4500 (Long Shaft

Re: Please help decode this 20R72 (72 Johnson 20 horse)

If it where a long shaft motor the model number would be 20RL72. I had one of each that I sold on Ebay. That is a short shaft engine.

Re: Please help decode this 20R72 (72 Johnson 20 horse)

Thanks guys that really helps alot.