Are 1972 and 1973 Johnson 65 hp powerheads interchangeable?

[tmack41]

My 1973 Johnson 65 hp has one bad cylinder (scored). Can I replace the powerhead with a 1972 Johnson 65 hp?

 

[racerone]

Yes but----You will have to swap over the shift linkages and some wiring.----One uses electric shift with YELLOW plug.----The 73 uses a RED plug on the wiring harness.

 

[tmack41]

Thanks very much for the reply. I will see if I can figure it out.

 

[racerone]

Step #1 -----Need to figure out whether the 73 shift parts ( bell crank ) will fit on the 72 block.

 

[faztbullet]

The 72 does not have the molded boss for shift rod unless you swap the front crankcase halves

 

[tmack41]

Thanks very much for the reply. You helped me decide to just fix what I have. I really appreciate it.