85HP Lower Question

[Skydiver Scott]

I am looking for a replacement lower on my 1987 85HP Force model 856X7A. I am thinking it is a 20" but am curious what I specifically need to measure to be sure. Measure the drive shaft from the top of the Water Pump to the top of the splines? Also it seems that there is a good deal of interchangeability with these lower units. Any specific tips to look for? I am searching e-bay and have a few potential options and I was thinking if it was a single shaft (not split) pre 90's model and had an exhaust snout as I am pretty sure this motor is not a through Prop exhaust and is from a least a 85 or a 120 HP it should work.... Am I wrong on that? I know the gearing might be slightly different with the 120HP lower on the 85HP but a prop change can adjust for that iof I am thinking correctly.

Thanks for the input.

Scott

 

[healey8390]

Re: 85HP Lower Question

Its probably a 20". I dont know if force made a 25" in the 85 because once boats get to 25" transonms theyre in the 20+ft length and an 85 would be too weak for that. Measure the transom from top where the motor hangs to the bottom of the drain hole that will tell you. Chrysler went to the 1 piece lower in 77' so a lower from 77'-87' with a hp range of 85-140 should work. Good luck

 

[jerryjerry05]

Re: 85HP Lower Question

www.OnlineOutboards.com. Go to the tech section and open the FAC. Then
open the link to transom height.
The 85 was made with both long and short shaft.
It was used primarily on the Bayliner boats from the early 80s till they stopped making them in 99.
The long shaft was used on most Trophy models and some 17ft cuddy cabins.
Good luck,J