We Test Stuff

Q:

Hi Mick. I enjoy reading your Q&A segment in Boating.

In the September 2020 issue, under “Old Skiff,” Ron Melquiades asked about extending a short-shaft engine to a longshaft engine. Johnson did make extension kits to change from a 15-inch to a 20-inch shaft.

First, Ron would have to determine the correct year and horsepower. In 1973, Johnson made a 9.5 hp model 9R73. In 1974, Johnson made a 9.9 hp model 10R74. These were very different engines.

The extension kit for the 9.5 hp was part number 380022.

The extension kit for the 9.9 hp was 386710 and superseded to part number 0392002.

There may have been additional part-number changes.

The big question is, where can you get an extension kit? Places such as Sea-Way Marine in Lynnwood, Washington (seawaymarine.com), specialize in old outboard motor parts. There are some other places Ron could do a web search to find. Another option is to check out the Antiques Outboard Motor Club (aomci.org).

Roy Decker Hoover, Alabama

A: Thanks so much, Roy!