Lower unit interchangeability

[coreyrosenfeld]

Will a lower unit for a 1959 50hp Evinrude Starflite interchange with a 1959 50hp Johnson Super Seahorse. I found the Starflite lower on E-bay and need the clutch dog and lower gears for my Super Seahorse. The Starflite is a short shaft and my Seahorse is a Long. Can I simply change put the long shaft parts that are good from my Seahorse in the good Starflite lower unit and use it as the bottom gears are good in the Starflite.

 

[R.Johnson]

Re: Lower unit interchangeability

Yes! that will work.

 

[CATransplant]

Re: Lower unit interchangeability

Ah, another Fat Fifty! Great old workhorse engine. The swap should work just fine. The two motors are essentially identical, although I think the Johnson has a nicer cowling.<br /><br />Just remember to carry extra fuel. Those old-timers suck it up at a rate that is astounding. My dad always carries one additional six-gallon tank more than he thinks he's going to need for the day, and he's been running his now since it was brand new.

 

[coreyrosenfeld]

Re: Lower unit interchangeability

OK, now back to the difference in shaft length. I can use the long drive parts from my lower and put them in the new(starflite) lower and then it will be good to go? How hard is this and does anyone know anyone near Atlanta that wants to help me do it? Hehe!

 

[CATransplant]

Re: Lower unit interchangeability

That would be the idea on that swap. You'll need the driveshaft, shift rod, and water tube(s). While you have it apart, you'll want to replace the impeller, too. There may be other items to shift over as well. Your manual will be your guide, but it shouldn't be much more difficult than dropping the lower end to change the impeller...if everything works out OK.