Converting a Short shaft to a long

[Topshelf]

Well I have a new problem. Seems my new boat has a 20 inch transome, made for a long shaft motor. My Evinrude is short shaft motor. So after spending all week transfering all my stuff from old to new boat, rewiring, reworking the trailer, etc etc. seems it was all for nothing.

So I had the great idea of looking into a conversion kit from short to long shaft for my 1978 25 Evinrude. The thing runs like a dream so I would hate to start looking for a newer motor. Anyway the conversion kit WAS available probably years ago, but no longer. So last night I just happened to search Ebay and found the 5 inch extension case for $20.00, Normally they are like 200 bucks new, if you can find one.

To complete the conversion now I need all the other parts. Water tube, drive shaft and shift linkage and bolts. The longer drive shaft is the one I can't find. Anyone know where I can get one?Any other parts I may need that you guys might kwow of?

Is this a tough conversion? Anyone ever done one? I have some skills and have replaced the impeller before so I think I can tackle this one IF I can get the parts........

[Priority1]

If you can find a buyer for the short shaft, start looking for a different outboard. It will be far less expensive and a whole lot less work. I know it's not what you wanted to hear, but it's the fact. If you can get all the parts cheap it can be done.:)

[Topshelf]

Well funny you should say that. I called my local Evinrude dealer this morning. He had the conversion kit for my motor in his shop. Hopefully by the end of the week it will be installed and ready to fish!

I can not believe the prices on used Outboards these days. :dizzy:
New .... well thats like buying a new car. :xzicon_sm

[frenchriver1]

You were lucky to find the conversion kit, based on the year of the old kicker. Good stuff sometimes happens...

[RoadKillCafe]

Wait a minute, are you the guy who keeps sending me that "turn your short shaft into a long one" spam? :evil:

[frenchriver1]

That's the Extends commercial... Over a million happy users....

[john warren]

if its a kicker why not just use a transom bracket that raises and lowers?

[FishTales]

if its a kicker why not just use a transom bracket that raises and lowers?

Well I have a new problem. Seems my new boat has a 20 inch transome, made for a long shaft motor. My Evinrude is short shaft motor.

He never said anything about a kicker.

[Topshelf]

Its a 16 ft Alumicraft fishing boat. The 25 is my only motor except for the Minkota :)
Looks like I should get the motor back Friday. :D