OMC White Anchor Electric to Cable Shift?

[DukesFin]

'74 OMC 165 Outdrive connected to a GM L6 250...<br /><br />Can I change over from electric shift to cable shift? I've been offered a new lower unit (cable shift)for a great price. I told the guy to "hang on" while I check into the possibility of changing over...<br /><br />Thanks!

 

[KaGee]

Re: OMC White Anchor Electric to Cable Shift?

Yes you can. Boomyal did it as have others. From what I know, you have to change the shift converter box. What else, I'm not sure.<br /><br />HOWEVER...<br /><br />IMO, Unless you are going to switch to the true mechanical shift, I would not bother.<br /><br />OMC went from electric shift to hydraulic assisted shift (late '70's)to true mechanical ('81 and up I believe) similar to their outboards at the time. If the unit you are looking at is a mechanical shift, make sure it includes the shift cable otherwise the overall cost will escalate quickly.

 

[DukesFin]

Re: OMC White Anchor Electric to Cable Shift?

Thanks. It does come with the cable.<br /><br />I did a little "searching" on this topic here, but wanted some "new" feedback on it.<br /><br />I appreciate it.<br /><br />Oh - Can I just do the lower unit or do I need to swap out the whole outdrive?

 

[Boomyal]

Re: OMC White Anchor Electric to Cable Shift?

You have to use your existing intermediate housing because the boot size for the later unit will not fit the opening in your hull. You need to make sure that you get the proper converter box for the type of drive. The hydro-mechanical uses one style and the full mechanical uses another. I've seen them both on ebay. You'll also need to get a throttle/shifter with the proper cable and ends.<br /><br />Using your current intermediate housing, you will a) want to be concerned with your early fine splined driveshaft and coupler. Mine is a '75 and it was considerably compromised. I changed them both to the later larger splined version. Lore has it that they never wear out. b) you'll need to enlarge the hole thru the intermediate housing where the shift cable goes. You won't have the cable retainer and nut like on the later housings so you'll need to use some 3M 4200 to seal the the cable as it goes thru the housing.<br /><br />It was the best move I've made on my boat.<br /><br />Oh, and be sure that you check the length of the outdrive. Electrics used two different lengths. The later units only used the short length so if your electric is long you'll be out of luck.<br /><br />If you are not sure whether you have a Hyd-mech or a Mech unit, post a side view picture of the leg.

 

[DukesFin]

Re: OMC White Anchor Electric to Cable Shift?

No problem enlarging the hole in the intermediate housing and sealing it. That part will be easy. I've got a short outdrive, so we're good there as well. More on this topic later as I get more info...