1974 70Johnson Question, rebuild or mortgage a new one...

[perch_destroyer]

Got the bad new today. My 1974 Johnson 70 needs a new gear case. Was told the gear case needs replacement (400$) and labor to be around 1 hour (95$). Is it gonna be worth putn this kinda of money into an old motor or getting a used 2 stroke instead? There are other problems with it that would require a little bit more work, carb/jets widened/cleaned, prop eating away at the lower unit.

Any ideas? Just planting this seed to see what it grows into.

Thanks, The Perch..

[marine_man]

I'd do some pricing and looking to see what you could get a different motor for... you'll have $500 into it, but there's something to be said for knowing what you have as well...

Another option would be to give Outboard Recyclers, Twin Cities Outboard or Tim's Outboard in Hackensack a call and see what they get for a used lower unit. It could be cheaper than the re-build.

I'd see what your options are for a used motor first, and what a used gearcase would run.

marine_man

[ScoutII]

Probably can help you find a used similar outboard. Do you have any