ok to buy 70s electric shift

[Steve Mahler]

I am certainly aware that the electric shift motors are less desireable because they are harder to work on etc....however, if the unit is currently shifting well, and the price is right, should i still avoid an electric shift?

currently looking at a 72 johnson 60hp.....

 

[1730V]

Re: ok to buy 70s electric shift

Several things to consider.

1. How long do you want it?

2. Is it serviceable-yes.

3. Keep it serviced with BRP/OMC "Premium Blend" (type C) gearcase oil-ONLY!. Anything else will cause you greif.

There are a lot of them out there still running around. Service it, with a good manual, and it will run for years.

 

[jimmbo]

Re: ok to buy 70s electric shift

no such thing as a 1972 60hp. In 72 and 73 there was 3 cylinder 65hp. In 71 - 72 the was a 3 cylinder 60 hp. The was also a V4 60 hp, but these were from the mid 60s, 1964 thru 67.

 

[Steve Mahler]

Re: ok to buy 70s electric shift

my bad on the year, the cowl clearly says 60hp - has the color scheme of the late 60s johnsons. this is a three cylinder motor....

 

[F_R]

Re: ok to buy 70s electric shift

Not really knowing for sure what motor you are considering, let me say this: There are two types of electric shift. I assume you are talking about a 1970 or 71 60hp? That would be Hydro-Electric shift. There is nothing wrong with that system at all and they are NOT any harder to work on than manual shifts which followed it. The biggest problem with them in my opinion is ignorance, fear, and incompitence. The next biggest problem would be the shift switch in the control which is getting rare and outrageously expensive. Whatever system you get needs maintenance. Ignore it and let if fill up with water and rust and you have big $$ signs in front of your eyes.....no matter if it is electric or not.

Worse than the electric shift question on those motors is the not-so-great Motorola CD ignition system with the distributor under the flywheel. Now there, I prefer the newer motors with Mag CD.