1979 vs. 1981 35hp top end rebuild

[dawhits1]

I've got a 1979 Evinrude 35hp, been a great running motor up until recently, compression started getting low and then had it out yesterday and motor died and wouldn't restart. Brought it in, did a compression test and have 10psi on the lower cylinder.
My question now is... other than the compression it's in great shape. carb rebuild and new coils this year.

I can't seem to find top end rebuild kits for the older motors. Gaskets, pistons, rings, wrist pins etc. They have kits for the 1981 up readily available for cheap. I've got the ability to rebuild a two stroke now problem, but piecing out each component in a top end kit get's cost prohibitive pretty quick..

My question is... where do people get top end kits for these older motors.. and what is the difference between 1979 and 1981 when it comes to the cylinders, pistons, etc. I'm aware of the charging plate differences but not much else..

 

[jasper60103]

I've got a 1979 Evinrude 35hp, been a great running motor up until recently, compression started getting low and then had it out yesterday and motor died and wouldn't restart. Brought it in, did a compression test and have 10psi on the lower cylinder.
My question now is... other than the compression it's in great shape. carb rebuild and new coils this year.

I can't seem to find top end rebuild kits for the older motors. Gaskets, pistons, rings, wrist pins etc. They have kits for the 1981 up readily available for cheap. I've got the ability to rebuild a two stroke now problem, but piecing out each component in a top end kit get's cost prohibitive pretty quick..

My question is... where do people get top end kits for these older motors.. and what is the difference between 1979 and 1981 when it comes to the cylinders, pistons, etc. I'm aware of the charging plate differences but not much else..

You can research the differences on outboard part sites like:
boats dot net
marineengine dot com
shop2evinrude dot com

 

[Chinewalker]

Starting about 1981, they used the 3-cylinder 70/75 rods in the 25/35 series. They had a larger wrist pin, so the 1981 & newer pistons will not work in your 1979. I'm not certain, but you may be able to use the later rods in your earlier motor if you want to go that route. Drop me a PM as I may have some parts.