Does anyone know where i can get a shift lever (forward reverse neutral) for a 1962 johnson 5 1/2 hp. how hard are they to change out? are there any special tools needed? thanks terry
If you don't mind the appearance, a shifter from a late-70's or newer 20, 25, 30, or 35hp "Big-Inch" 2-cyl will also work. Sometimes you'll find them on eBay quite cheap. I've used one on a 5-1/2hp Evinrude and it worked just fine.
Here's a couple listings on eBay showing shift shaft portion of the shifter which goes into the motor:
The plastic handle slips over the end of this shift shaft and fastens with 2 screws. Nice thing is, you'll never break a shift handle again! And if it should somehow break, the handle itself is easily replaceable without tearing the powerhead off.
Here's a decent eBay deal on a brand-new shift lever to fit the shift shaft:
Note that since the style of motor 'pans' vary, you might want to make sure whatever shifter you get will clear the pan and stick out far enough to not interfere with the shift lever's range of travel.
