Re: Comparing ’62 with ’73 Fisherman

[Don]

I would agree with the original posting, for the most part, the 6hp models are in general, an improvement of the 5.5hp models they replaced. I think you are thinking of the 10hp models when you refer to problematic wrist pins with no bearings. Like Dan says, plain wrist pin bushings are not a problem on these smaller engines, even at 50:1. I have never seen one of these engines with any wrist pin wear issues.
I have never had any calibration issues with the fixed high speed jet on these engines. Like Dan says, running the engine at higher altitudes would be the only reason to consider swapping over to the adjustable needle/bowl set up. Keep in mind that the 6hp engine pan will get in the way of the adjustable needle, making the adjustment process a bit more inconvenient to perform.