Unknown Johnson gear case

[Tempest 160]

Just wondering if anyone has ever seen one of these? I recently acquired this 1976 Johnson 20hp motor, model # 20BA760 but I can't find any info on it at all. I've had Johnson and Evinrudes for many years but have yet to ever see one with this gear case, it has fins already molded into the lower half of the gear case, they are not a separate item. The unit still works perfectly and is in quite good condition for it's age. If you can offer any ideas on it I would love to hear them. Thanks..

 

[82rude]

interesting.cant wait to here from the more knowledgable omc guys.

 

[hardwater fisherman]

My 1976 40hp evinrude has the same fins. My 1975 40hp johnson does not.

 

[boobie]

They were put on there to try and help stabilize the boat. Not very successful .

 

[hardwater fisherman]

I think if anything it creates more drag.

 

[racerone]

Operated one of those one time.------Turning the tiller handle at speed made the boat lean and those fins took over and pulled the stern,--Scary it was.

 

[Chinewalker]

They were included on some of the heavy duty "Worktwin" models, in 20/25 and 40hp flavors. They were there as a propeller guard.

 

[hardwater fisherman]

Operated one of those one time.------Turning the tiller handle at speed made the boat lean and those fins took over and pulled the stern,--Scary it was.

Yes I know what you mean. I am resealing the gearcase before next season and I was already thinking about trying the regular skeg off my parts motor.

 

[boobie]

You can't interchange skegs because the lower unit is line bored at the factory with the skeg in place. Yes I know, some people have done it.

 

[hardwater fisherman]

Thanks I did not know that.

 

[boobie]

You're welcome.

 

[Faztbullet]

Its actually a weedless lower unit (note prop design) for shallow water operations

 

[boobie]

Where did you find that out ??

 

[Faztbullet]

It is a commercial motor, most likely Canadian made and unit designed to deflect weeds and debris away from prop. Prop design rarely allows WOT operation as it cavatates easily. Info from good friend/retired OMC service rep that hangs out over on AOMCI site.

 

[boobie]

Can you send me a PM with the friends name ?? I may know him.

 

[Faztbullet]

You have PM.....