Did they make a change between the 72 & 73 Johnson 65

[Gun Dog]

I want to pickup a junk 65ESL72S for parts for my 65ESL73R. Both are power shift II. Specifically. I wanted to rebuild the lower unit and drop it on the 73. Did they make a change between years? Checking the parts numbers many parts cross reference, stator assembly, coil packs, engine gaskets kit (but not the heads?) The gear case and pinion and shaft have different part numbers. Did they change lower units? Will the 72 lower unit work on my 73? What is a good source for cross referencing motors and parts. I've been using boatsnet. The schematics are good but don't answer all my questions.

 

[jay_merrill]

Re: Did they make a change between the 72 & 73 Johnson 65

The motors are not the same in some respects. The gearcase components are not the same at all. The '72 is hydroelectric and the '73 is hydromechanical. They are not interchangeable at all.

The '72 powerhead also lacks the boss to mount mechanical gearshift components. I haven't looked at a '72 midsection with an eye towards placement of the shift rod that the '73 requires, but I'd guess it isn't compatible either.

The items that probably are the same are the ignition components, pistons, connecting rods, crank, carbs, fuel pump, etc. Beyond those items, you have two different motors.

 

[Gun Dog]

Re: Did they make a change between the 72 & 73 Johnson 65

Thanks Jay, Your knowledge of this motor is appreciated. I couldn't get that much good info from the local Johnson mechanic. I'm going to pass on the 72 because I mainly wanted it for a lower end spare for the 73. I really wish there was a good cross reference data base for home mechanics to access.

 

[tx1961whaler]

Re: Did they make a change between the 72 & 73 Johnson 65

http://shop2.evinrude.com has all of the parts diagrams and part numbers for 1968 and newer. marineengine.com has the parts lists back to about 1956.

 

[jay_merrill]

Re: Did they make a change between the 72 & 73 Johnson 65

Glad I could help. I own a pair of '72 Johnson 65hp motors, so I'm pretty familiar with them.