86 Mariner 2st twin shortening the shaft

[zodiacman]

I have a 86 Mariner 2st 40hp long shaft and would like to know how big a job it would be to alter to a short shaft. Would it just mean swapping to a short leg and changing prop drive shaft and shortening the water intake tube? would the original LS gearbox be ok to use?

[9D280]

In a word, yes!

[m chappelow]

and the gear linkage ,,i have known people cut the drive shaft and re weld on the end but you would have to be accurate even if you sleeve it first ,,but if you have all the parts and the bolts dont shear if taking the leg section apart no problem .

[Nos4r2]

To be honest given the potential problems and costs involved on doing that level of work on a 23 year old engine, I'd sell it and buy a short shaft. You'll probably have to replace all the gearbox seals if you strip it and you're likely to find a lot of seized bolts...

[zodiacman]

I bought a long shaft cheap and just seen a short leg on ebay thought it might be worth having a go, Ive never done any major work on outboards so I might do as you say and sell it on as it is. cheers for your advice