1971 vs 1972 JE Lower Unit Interchange

[Intermediate Mariner]

Good Morning!
Working on an 1971 85hp Johnson that needs a lower unit. I have an extra 1972 lower unit. The part numbers are different yet they look exactly the same, match up and have alot of the same part numbers (although the actual lower unit part #'s are different).

I talked to a couple of old OMC mechanics and they of course said it'll work (talking from the hip maybe... without looking in any books).

Anyone know the difference? Both are electric shift with same part# for cable assembly (but driveshaft is different part# for example).
1971 #384583
1972 #385413

Thanks
Shawn T
Wichita, KS

 

[Intermediate Mariner]

Re: 1971 vs 1972 JE Lower Unit Interchange

Does anyone know if these will interchange? They look the same and appear to match up (but both units have alot of different part numbers).

 

[Scott Chinsota]

Re: 1971 vs 1972 JE Lower Unit Interchange

wow, another electrict shift still in service?! I have a '71 lower unit i have rebulit...totally. the interchange for a '72 is a grey area because that was near the end of production for that type of lower unit. the driveshaft splines are the variable. i believe the evenrude differs from the johnson where the shaft goes into the powerhead. i just went to my garage and checked the socket i bought for my driveshaft against my spare driveshaft from my parts unit and they dont match, just as i had thought. for the rebuild i used the forward and reverse gears, the clutch-dog assy, and the shift coil assy from the spare unit. i think the spare was a johnson because the shaft didnt match but that was the only difference between the two lower units. you should be in good shape. i have the manuals and can look up whatever is necessary. feel free to contact me with any questions and i'll do my best to help.