Question for the Johnson/Evinrude experts

[wiscoboater]

I have a chance to buy a 1964 Evinrude 28hp speeditwin. The motor is in very nice running condition, electric start with controls and all the dash wiring. Problem is it’s a long shaft motor. I need a short shaft for my wood boat project. I have in my basement a nice FD 20, also with electric start. I know changing the Evinrude over to short shaft is going to be a project…So, will the 64 28hp powerhead swap on to the FD pan, tower, lower? It would be easier to swap the powerhead then do the long to short conversion. Will it fit?

[retiredoz]

I think I’d just look for a short-shaft lower unit off a 35 or 40-hp Bigtwin (or Skitwin) ’59 -’73, the gears and driveshafts are the same as the 28. I’m sure somebody else will weigh in, but I don’t think putting that powerhead on an FD-20 tower will be even close..

[chris-p]

Sorry no very different.

[wiscoboater]

Ok, that makes sense. I had never heard of the 28hp motor before. I was not sure if it was a "big twin" or just a "twin" like the FD. I think I might just pick it up anyway. I know this guy in Madison Wisconsin that has lots of big twin stuff.
Scott…..Ya out there Buddy?

[adam1961]

Shortening the 28 is not that big of a project. All you will need is the right drive shaft. Much easier that locating the shift, water tube and exhaust housing extensions when you want to go from short to long.

[frankr]

And when you are done, you will have the long shaft parts available to sell.

[outbdnut2]

Try posting an ad onthe Webtervise board here for someone to trade long for short parts.
Dave

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