Deciding on a small outboard for a lightweight boat comes down to a few practical questions: How much power do you actually need? Does your transom suit a short shaft or a long one? And how much age and uncertainty are you willing to accept? In the marine engines propulsion category, a used vintage motor like this 1976 Evinrude 6 HP 2 stroke short shaft sits at an interesting crossroads. It's offered at USD 500.00, which is a modest price for an outboard, but it's also a used motor from 1976 with no warranty. This review breaks down what this listing really offers.
Quick Verdict
This is a used, no-warranty outboard from 1976, identified as model 6604A. If you're looking for a small 2-stroke motor under 10 hp and you're comfortable with the realities of a vintage engine, this Evinrude is a candidate worth considering. It is not a new motor, and the purchase comes with the usual risks of age and prior use.
Who It Suits
This motor fits a boater with a small or medium-sized boat that works with a short shaft. The 6 HP output keeps it firmly in the under-10-hp range, which is ideal for lightweight watercraft where you don't need a lot of thrust. It also suits someone who appreciates the simpler, lighter design of a 2-stroke and is willing to work with an older outboard.
What Stands Out from the Listed Details
The listing is specific about what this is: a 1976 Evinrude, 6 HP, 2-stroke, short shaft, model number 6604A. Evinrude is a well-known brand in the marine industry, and this model falls into a power class that's easy to handle. The short shaft is a critical detail-it's meant for boats with a lower transom height, so matching it to your hull is essential.
Meaningful Trade-offs
The biggest trade-off is condition and support. This outboard is listed as used, and the warranty field says "No Warranty." With a motor from 1976, you should expect to handle maintenance or parts sourcing on your own. The price of $500 reflects the vintage nature of the unit. Also, the listing includes a California Prop 65 warning, which is standard for many older marine products; it's something to be aware of, not necessarily a deal-breaker.
Bottom Line
If you need a small 6 HP outboard with a short shaft and you're comfortable buying a used 1976 motor without warranty, the Evinrude 6604A is a viable option. Just make sure it fits your boat's transom and your own tolerance for vintage-engine upkeep before you spend the $500.
1976 Evinrude 6 Hp 2 Stroke Model #: 6604A Short Shaft Outboard Motor
The 1976 Evinrude 6 HP 2 stroke short shaft is a concrete, identifiable outboard motor, and that specificity is a real plus when you're shopping used. One strong reason to choose it is its 6 HP, 2-stroke design: it's a small, manageable powerhead that won't overwhelm a modest boat. The limitation is equally clear: it's a used engine with no warranty, so the onus is on you to evaluate its condition and be ready for maintenance.
