1973 Johnson 50 HP shifting backwards...

[Bradster61]

I replaced the lower unit which was the large gearcase mechanical shift, with a 1975 small gearcase lower unit Mechanical shift and now the rotation is backwards (LH). Since nobody makes LH rotation props for the small gearcase I need suggestions to remedy this problem. Tried flipping the control but can't obtain WOT. Does'nt appear to be any way either on the control, engine or lower unit to fix this problem.Shifts into F,N,and R fine Just backwards Thanks for any suggestions!
Brad

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: 1973 Johnson 50 HP shifting backwards...

This is just a thought but is it possible to change the cables over at the control end of things ???

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: 1973 Johnson 50 HP shifting backwards...

when you move the shifter to forward the engine end should shorten reverse should lengthen... if it is not, the cable or cam in the control is wrong.

 

[Bradster61]

Re: 1973 Johnson 50 HP shifting backwards...

when you move the shifter to forward the engine end should shorten reverse should lengthen... if it is not, the cable or cam in the control is wrong.

I will recheck that but I'm pretty sure thier is not a way to change it in the control.

 

[Bradster61]

Re: 1973 Johnson 50 HP shifting backwards...

This is just a thought but is it possible to change the cables over at the control end of things ???

The only way to change them is to flip the control around but then you dont have full throttle in foward.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: 1973 Johnson 50 HP shifting backwards...

how about a picture of the control so we know which one you have. use the go advance below, and then clik manage attachments, then you can upload from computer or a hosting site.

 

[Chinewalker]

Re: 1973 Johnson 50 HP shifting backwards...

You've got the wrong lower unit. The first years after they did away with electric shifting they used a hydromechanical shift that shifts opposite the later straight-up mechanical shift units. The only fix that will work is to replace all the linkage for the throttle/shift with that from a 1975. Or you can find the correct lower unit...
- Scott

 

[Bradster61]

Re: 1973 Johnson 50 HP shifting backwards...

You've got the wrong lower unit. The first years after they did away with electric shifting they used a hydromechanical shift that shifts opposite the later straight-up mechanical shift units. The only fix that will work is to replace all the linkage for the throttle/shift with that from a 1975. Or you can find the correct lower unit...
- Scott

Thats what I was afraid of. I got the lower unit for almost nothing so I tried it rather than drop 600-800 bucks on one from a boat salvage. Now I just have to try and find the linkage. Thanks for your help.

 

[Bradster61]

Re: 1973 Johnson 50 HP shifting backwards...

how about a picture of the control so we know which one you have. use the go advance below, and then clik manage attachments, then you can upload from computer or a hosting site.

Its a Bombadier Control box off a later model. I think Chinewalker answered my question below. I'll just need to find the linkage for the motor. Thanks.