Upped to 65hp in 1968. A little history, OMC came out with the first V-4 outboard in 1958, the 50hp. Nick-named the Fat Fifty by competitor, Mercury. In 1960 the bore was increased and the lower unit redesigned, making 75hp. But the "other" OMC division, Gale, kept the smaller bore powerhead, with the new lower unit, making 60hp. Gale stopped producing motors in 1963, but Johnson and Evinrude kept building the 60hp as a lower cost motor along with their 75hp. So, that is what you have there. A good reliable, simple outboard motor without all the fancy bells and whistles. It will go almost as fast as the 75, on less gas. But they are both thirsty motors compared to some newer ones. The 1958 50hp took top honors in the gas-drinking department. 60hp was much improved.
I am not sure yet. I have someone looking at it. I am restoring the boat which is a 1964 MFG Niagara. I would like to keep the original motor but I am getting mixed information. My dad took very good care of this boat and I know he winterized it when he parked it in the basement. My best guess is it hasn't been run since 1989. I have a lot of memories with this boat and it means a lot to me. I just don't want to go down a path of frustration.
