Home › Forum › Ask A Member › Johnson 10 power head upgrade? › Re: Johnson 10 power head upgrade?
Yes, the ’57 and older, had the better lower unit. The smaller lower unit on the ’58 and later, was good too…..until water intrusion starts and neglect will shorten the life of it rather quickly. It’s basically an improved 5.5 lower unit, put on a 10. The old 5 bolt style lower unit was used on motors up to 25hp and 22 cubic inches, so the little ten horse power head was no where near a threat to it. I’ll happily sacrifice a couple extra pounds for lots more longevity.
As for the power head improvements, the points made here are correct. The wrist pins were a weak spot and did much better on the later parts.
If you’re pushing a 14 foot boat though, stepping up to a ’57 Fastwin 18 is a better choice yet. Much, much better motors