1975 Mercury 50 hp lower unit

[joefrang]

Last time I was out fishing, I managed to hit a rock. I broke about 2 inches off the skag, destroyed the prop, and worst of all bent the prop shaft. Local mechanic gave me an estimate of $580 to replace the shaft. Seems high to me, I am a new boat owner, so I am really not qualified to make that assumption. I am considering buying a rebuilt lower unit. A vendor listed on iboat has one listed for $543. Has anyone ever dealt with this vendor. Should I be concerned.<br /><br />Next option:<br />THIS IS A USED 1984-1989 MERCURY LOWER UNIT IT IS A LONG SHAFT IT SHOULD FIT 1984-1989 35hp 1970-1989 40hp, 45hp, 50hp a rebuilt <br />That is a statement from an on-line auction. Should I trust that it will fit my 1795 Mercury 50hp? Should I have any concerns<br /><br />I appreciate any information I get.<br /><br />Thanks,<br />Joe

 

[mellowyellow]

Re: 1975 Mercury 50 hp lower unit

welcome aboard,<br />is your current motor a long shaft as well?

 

[joefrang]

Re: 1975 Mercury 50 hp lower unit

Wish I knew how to answer that. Is there a simple way I can tell?

 

[Chinewalker]

Re: 1975 Mercury 50 hp lower unit

Shaft length (rounded up or down to the nearest 5" increment) is determined by measuring the distance from the horizontal plane of the clamps where they mount to the boat, to the plane of the ventilation plate on the lower unit. Short shaft is around 15", long shaft is around 20" for motors up to about 85hp. Then the standard is 20" and long is 25".<br /><br />As for the propshaft replacement, shop around a bit. All you need to do is find someone's blown motor with a good lower unit. It's January and you're in Chicago - you have time to hunt a bit. If you're at all handy, you might even be able to replace the shaft yourself (with a manual, of course), assuming that's all that's wrong with the unit. I've often seen good lower unit innards show up on eBay for decent prices. Watch it and see what happens... DO some research, read up on it, etc.<br /><br /> Good luck!<br /><br />- Scott

 

[mellowyellow]

Re: 1975 Mercury 50 hp lower unit

good advice from Scott as usual... try measuring<br />your transom. standard shaft is 20" not 25 (long)<br />and a long shaft on a reg. transom will not perform<br />for crud!<br />good luck,<br />M.Y.