Newbie long vs short shaft question

"Hi - I was recently given an

"Hi - I was recently given an old 4HP Evinrude with the following model / serial # info:

Model # 4837E
Model # E0001392

I believe it is a '78 but I am trying to figure out if it is considered a "short shaft" or "long shaft" I measured it from the top of the transom to the top of the cavitation plate and it is around 20" However, it looks like the water intake holes are a few inches above the plate. I am concerned that the motor water intake may be above the water line in some cases. I want to use this as a backup motor on a 13' Whaler that requires a long shaft.

Is there a way to tell from the model or serial # whether or not the motor is a long or short shaft ?

Thanks !"

"[url=""]http://www.evinrude.c

"http://www.evinrude.com/en-us/accessories/literature/?popup=true

Yes, 1978 4hp, look here and see which lower unit you have there's a weedless and a standard. Shows a extention kit to make it a long shaft, so the model number may not tell you anything about exhaust housing length."

"By the way, put the motor on

"By the way, put the motor on the boat, line up your eye/straight edge with bottom of boat, if the cav plate is within an inch above/below the bottom of boat its ok. The main water intake is below the cav plate. The other is a secondary intake, otherwize your motor would burn up if it ever plained out. 20" would be a long shaft model."

Thanks Paul - This is very hel

Thanks Paul - This is very helpful !