Electric shift Johnsons ?

[lake_time]

I have some decisions to make on 2 engines. All things being equal is the electric shift on the '72-'73 65hp Johnson’s as good or any better then and manual shift? As I have the choice does anyone have any advice on which way to go?<br />Can you mix the lowers and powerheads?<br /><br />Thanks<br /><br />Dave

 

[corm]

Re: Electric shift Johnsons ?

Hi Dave,<br />I like the manual shift LU better,less things to go wrong. If you use the ele shift<br />make shure you put OMC type C LU oil in it.<br />If the powerhead base gasket and the spline are the same you can use either one.If one has powertrim, that would influnice my decision. Make shure the water pump is in good shape on the one you use.<br />...have fun...corm

 

[twilight4]

Re: Electric shift Johnsons ?

I have an electric shift v4 starflight model number is100293R serial is j 08715. Can I change it to a manual shift? also can I locate parts? I might be willing to sell the power head or trade it is a 100hp evinrude.

 

[Franki]

Re: Electric shift Johnsons ?

I have the electric shift johnson.. <br /><br />apart from a problem where I had only forward gear when I first got it.. (caused by lack of use and gumed oil in the pump and fixed by flushing the LU with premix) I have had no other problem..<br /><br />They are a huge step up from the old selectric gear cases, where loss of power left you stuck in neutral... these hydroelectics will leave you in fowards if you have a problem, which means you can still get home..<br /><br />As someone else mentioned, use the OMC premium LU oil, as not doing so will cause the wires running to the soleniods to deteriorate..<br /><br />rgds<br /><br />Frank

 

[rons boat]

Re: Electric shift Johnsons ?

I have owned many electric shifts over the years and I have only had problems from lack of proper maintainence. The type C lubricant must be used to allow the solenoid to properly operate. They, if properly maintained, are great units. Operator abuse is a problem since it is so easy to shift and there is a temptation to change gears at too high a rpm or too quickly. This has resulted in loss of forward or reverse gears. It is possible to convert, but difficult to get all the right parts and match everything up. I have one converted unit. If it works well then my advice is too enjoy one of the systems ahead of its time. Please note that the industry appears to be headed back to remote control electric shifting.