Will a 1979 250hp cable shift outdrive interchange with 1985 5.7L cable shift outdrive

[Smilin_Bob]

I have a 1985 OMC 5.7L with a junk outdrive and an opportunity to acquire a 1979 OMC 250hp cable shift outdrive. The upper gear ratios are the same. will they interchange?

 

[Redrig]

My understanding is no.....the hydro shift cable from 79 can not be swapped around with the later mechanical shift cables.