Hondon to Skinnywater

[hondon]

I don't know personally anyone that is swapping jet and prop gearcases on these engines back and forth.It can be done on others but this engine will throw a couple obstacles at you.First you probably know that there is a gear change under the powerhead to aleiviate the problem of overrev with the jet.This can likely be overcome with carefull prop selection.Now comes the hard part.Your factory jet comes missing the upper shift shaft.The clevis that operates that shaft is visible but hardly easily accessible .Take a look for yourself and tell me what you think.

 

[Skinnywater]

Re: Hondon to Skinnywater

Thanks for your reply.<br />Other then the knowledge of the gear you've mentioned, its difference/purpose as it relates to the swap was completely unknown to me.<br />With that and your additional information I've been tossed a curve. It's been my intention all along to add this (swap)versatility to my boat. <br />However, I'm fine with careful prop selection. I'm fine with an additional hour or so of labor installing shift shaft/clevis, while I'm swapping legs. <br />I'll look up this linkage in my factory manual.<br /><br />So, here's what I know now. <br />The motor is mounted .25" to low for absolute optimim performance. Last weekend I was able to easily raise it 1/8" by slacking the mounting bolts. This resulted in the strongest and noticable performance yet without any hint of cavitation. The manufacture of the jet offers a diverter plate that allows raising the engine and eliminating, up to a point, the onset of cavitation. With the 5.5" setback a jackplate allows, the additional height and cleaner water would likely be an additional positive gain. <br />With these tuning and tweaks I will be PERFECTLY satisfied with my boat for river operation. <br />However, you're experienced in my boats present setup. I'd like the same satisfaction while on Lake Shasta, Tahoe, the Delta, and the coastal waters. As you know the jet will be unsatifactory/impractical in these environments, while a prop leg for these adventures would be very acceptable. The additional $1200-$1600? for this versatillity is reasonable to me.<br /><br />Now, with this all in mind. With emphasis placed mainly on practicallity, what are your recommendations at this point. I'll have to add here, I really love this boat and it's matched my expectations up to this point. And obviously I'm open to experimentation, if it's reasonable.<br /><br />I've purposely kept myself from asking you a thousand questions all these months while on this board. Your info and advise is highly valued. Any recommendations, parts or services you provide, I'm prepared to pay for. And again, Salmon are in the river, it's your busy time and I'm not in a rush here.<br />Thanks again. <br /><br />bachelor@stormnet.com

 

[Skinnywater]

Re: Hondon to Skinnywater

>>First you probably know that there is a gear change under the powerhead to aleiviate the problem of overrev with the jet.<br /><br />A footnote in my Specialty Products jet parts list says "crankshaft gearset approx. 1:1 must be used". If I have to tear into the gearcase to get the code I will.<br />Sure would be nice to find a quality prop to compensate for that ratio that would allow me to cruise at a lower RPM on the larger water for a change.<br /><br />>>Take a look for yourself and tell me what you think. <br /><br />I've already been there adjusting the neutral safety switch lever at that clevis/cable end. Your correct, shift rod "A" is missing, but the access isn't a problem for me. I'd buy all the missing pieces, pins,clips,A&B shift rods (etc.) and an extra water pump assy.with the complete leg.

 

[hondon]

Re: Hondon to Skinnywater

That gear ratio change is accomplished under the powerhead in the gearset that changes the couterclockwise rotation of the engine to clockwise rotation that the gearcase uses.No simple swap back and forth.Thats why the carefull prop selection suggestion.That jackplate should enable you to saise or lower that engine at least 5 inches to accomplish what you have in mind or if you decide to lay down for the parts you might consider the extra long gearcase with the exhaust housing extension.Then you will have to remove that shift shaft with each conversion and that still looks tedious and frustating to me.San Leandros low water pickups work but are prone to bending in the same situation they give you the advantage.If you can keep off the rocks you might consider the but I've yet to see a set that are straight.Enjoy talking to you and will help any way I can.