Lower units compatable for an Evinrude 70

[outfishing13]

I have heard that the lower units for a number of different years for the Evinrude 70s are the same. I have an 1978 Evinrude 70 mod# 70873C with a sheared shaft at the spline in the lower unit. I really don't want to tear into it right now to verify the condition of the gear cluster and see if I can get the broken spline out. I have been looking on eBay, Craigslist, and the net for a used lower unit. Does anyone know what other model numbers are compatible with the motor I have. I'd really appreciate it. If you have one for sell, that would be great too.

outfishing13

 

[Dabbler_E]

Re: Lower units compatable for an Evinrude 70

Based on this thread here 60 or 70 hp Johnson/'Rudes from 1978-1998 will work, but splines changed in the 80's.

 

[outfishing13]

Re: Lower units compatable for an Evinrude 70

Thanks a bunch. Sort of new at outboards. Lots of experience on commercial fishing boats with Volvo Penta outdrives. I am sure I will learn though.

Outfishing13

 

[outfishing13]

Re: Lower units compatable for an Evinrude 70

Well, since I posted my question I have continued my search for a lower unit for a 1978 Evinrude 70. This is what I have learned so far. If someone tells you that a 1977 or earlier unit will work, they are wrong. They will bolt up but there are three distinct differences. First the shifting rod is shorter by about 1/4 inch and so your shifter will not line up correctly. Second the shifter rod is bent slightly differently and third, the shifter linkage is positioned about 1/4 farther back in the housing on the 1977 and older models. Anyhow it is different enough that it is not compatible with the 1978 - 1988 models.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Lower units compatable for an Evinrude 70

1973 -1977 were hydro-mechanical shift motors, all the linkage is different.