1988 transom bracket on a 1970 motor?

[electricjohn]

When my 1988 motor with 1400 hours quits, I'm considering putting a 1970 refurbished motor back on my 1970 boat. The only thing I want to avoid is drilling holes in my rebuilt transom do to the fact that the brackets will have different bolt patterns. Has anyone ever swapped out a newer bracket to an older motor? Is that even possible? Any thoughts?

 

[Chris1956]

Interesting question. The 1970 Merc would usually have a 4 bolt 3/8" pattern. If you have PTT, it would be 6 3/8" bolts. The newer motor would have a 4 bolt 1/2" pattern, which is a different layout.

You might measure the width of the tilt tube on the motors and see what the difference is. That may sink the idea. Also the diameter of the tilt tube is important.

If you have PTT, I doubt that will bolt up.

You might look for another motor, with the newer PTT system and bolt pattern.

 

[electricjohn]

I think the diameter of the tilt tube is the same because I still have the original (ride-glide?) steering on the boat. If I remember correctly, the swivel bracket is narrower on the older motors. Thinking I could use some sort spacer to keep it centered on the tilt tube.

 

[jimmbo]

Depending on which Motors are involved, you might be able to unbolt the Engine from the Yoke and move it over. It will require the Powerheads to come off to get at the Upper Engine Mounts