I have just seen a 40hp engine on ebay. It's local, looks OK, and is the right price. However, it is a short shaft (17"). My transform is 19 1/2". I was wondering whether I might be able to get away with a short shaft - most people agree that you can get away with a couple of inches either way....
I think you would need to cut out a section of your transom to fit the short shaft engine. This can be done but is it worth it? There are plenty of engines for sale and it would be a lot less trouble to wait for the correct one.
I think you would find it would slow you down alot having it that short. You can alway extend the leg of a 40hp ( well Mariners and Mercs you can ). What make is it thats for sale?
It was a Mercury. It's sold now. I'll get a long shaft I think - I currently have a longshaft.
You can etend Johnsons/Evinrude's quite easily too.
PS. If anyone has a 40hp longshaft electric start 2-stroke outboard they don't need......
