1961 merc500 ?

[djkennyb1769]

I Have A 1961 merc500 it is a short shaft need to know if it can be changed over to a long shaft and do the parts for the long shaft need to be same year and hp? love the motor runs great looks great just wont push my 14ft 1955 glasspar marathon through the water more than 8mph. it cavitates and prop skips. that's why i wonder if i can convert to long shaft and if that will solve the issues if anyone has any other ideas please let me know or if this is not the problem please let me know. thank you

 

[Fuzzytbay]

Re: 1961 merc500 ?

I am not 100% sure, but I think any 4 cylinder model up to 1965, maybe newer will fit. On the other hand, can you cut down the transom? Check the transom brace highth, if its under 16" from keel, you should be able to cut out a hole. Just my two cents

 

[Aqualift]

Re: 1961 merc500 ?

My 65 Merc 500 is a short shaft that has a long shaft extension kit installed on it. The extension kit lengthens all five components. Driveshaft, water inlet tube, exhaust tube and the leg. The leg piece bridges the gap for the shift shaft too. I'm not sure if Mercury offered the parts at the time or if it was aftermarket.

 

[djkennyb1769]

Re: 1961 merc500 ?

thank you guys for the 2 replies i got talked to local merc repair shop in home town didn't get good news.he said that they don't make the extension kit for this motor. and cutting the transom on the boat worries me a little cause the boat is so old and the transom is in good condition,but it sits so low in the water as it is. the merc guy also told me that mid section and lower unit from 68 or so may work to lengthen my motor anyone who may have done this or knows could reply would be very helpful. thanks to all again

 

[Fuzzytbay]

Re: 1961 merc500 ?

Since one of the "experts" here never did say, I am pretty sure a lower unit from any 4 cylinder 1960 up to 1968 should fit your motor. Again as for the transom cut, most boats made in those years were designed to be cut, if the brace highth was set at 15". Also depends too upon the size of the splash pan at the back. I cut my 64 areoliner down, the boat sits with about 10-12 inch above the water, never had a wave problem yet. anyhow good luck in searching for the lower end

 

[djkennyb1769]

Re: 1961 merc500 ?

just thought id let you guys know i cut the transom 3 1/2 in shorter to day on my 55 glasspar looks like it's gonna work!!!!! gonna resin seal the wood tomorrow transom wood looked brand new where i cut off will put back together on friday and in the water sun. oh and just a little info the baylor is a seperate piece from the rest of the deck a few screws and little prying it poped right out i will let you know how everything turns out when i put it back in the water thanks for all your in put and look forward to talking to you again real soon