1979 Johnson 55hp Compatibility question - please help

[marty53]

I busted my lower unit on my 1979 55hp Johnson model # 55E79
20 inch shaft 14 spline driveshaft

I have a lead on a 50hp 1974 Evinrude with 20 inch shaft 14 spline driveshaft.

Could someone tell me if these two units are fully compatible (ie bolt holes, or anything else)?

I really appreciate any help anyone can offer.

Thank you

 

[OBJ]

Re: 1979 Johnson 55hp Compatibility question - please help

Welcome Marty!

Problem is that the throw of the shift rod on the 74' is reverse of what it is on your 79'.

On your 79', when the shift rod is pulled up, the gear case goes into forward gear.....on the 74', it would go into reverse.

If you can get the shift linkage from the donor motor, you may be able to get the 74' gear case to work.