Changing out 91 Johnson 50 hp with 87 Evinrude 50 hp

[RJCap]

I have to replace my 1991 Johnson 2 cylinder 50 hp, threw a rod and I am told by the marina mechanic that is not worth fixing. I found a 1987 Evinrude 50 hp for a decent price and I am thinking about swapping them out myself. I am fairly handy but have never done this before. The controls for electrical, steering and shifting appear similar but will they in fact match up? Both motors have tilt and trim and this is going on my pontoon boat. Also, even though I am not buying the motor from the mechanic at the marina he told me that the 1987 Evinrude is a better motor than the 1991 Johnson. Any tips that will help this transition would be appreciated.

Bob

 

[metriccrescentwrench]

Re: Changing out 91 Johnson 50 hp with 87 Evinrude 50 hp

Ought to be a piece of cake. The controls should be identical. Mark the shift and throttle cables so you don't mix them up. You might need to adjust the trunions on the shift or throttle cable, just adjust the trunion 'till the cable and mounting stud match up (with the throttle set at idle and the gearcase in neutral). Then all that's left is the fuel connection, trim sender, and power to the tilt/trim motor.

Oh, don't forget to disconnect your battery cables at the battery before you start. That's kind of obvious but you certainly don't want any surprises.

 

[RJCap]

Re: Changing out 91 Johnson 50 hp with 87 Evinrude 50 hp

Thanks. I looked at the 87 and it was beat to heck. I have since found a 2003 Mercury Tracker 40 hp and the guy I am buying it from is going to help me swap it out this week.