87 Johnson 25 HP Lower Unit

[Ron062043]

I just purchased a 14ft Lowe boat with an 87 25 HP electric start Johnson. The boat was designed for a short shaft, but the motor is a long shaft. Anyone out there can tell me how to make it a short shaft and how much it might cost me to do this? Thanks in advance.

 

[jegervais]

Re: 87 Johnson 25 HP Lower Unit

It depends - Does your motor have the "5-inch extended" (add-on) or the one piece mid-section?<br /><br />If it's got the extended piece it's pretty simple and all you'll need is the short drive shaft and a seal kit.<br /><br />If it's one piece mid-section, it'll cost more to convert than the motor is worth...<br /><br />-John

 

[Ron062043]

Re: 87 Johnson 25 HP Lower Unit

Thanks John for the info. I have the 5 inch piece on this one. Does the shifting lever bar also have to be shortened?

 

[jegervais]

Re: 87 Johnson 25 HP Lower Unit

Well, sort of - you have to replace the upper shift rod with the shorter one. That will require removal of the powerhead.<br /><br />So you're looking at powerhead removal to replace shift rod (will need new gasket too). Gearcase removal and partial disassembly to replace drive-shaft (a couple of seals too) and elimination of the extention.<br /><br />-John