removed pivot pin

[mmdd]

I think I inadvertently removed the pivot pin in my mid-60's Johnson super sea horse 40 hp gearcase housing thinking it was drain plug. Now can't seem to get it to go back in! Any ideas? Thanks.

 

[DJ]

Re: removed pivot pin

Uh oh!:^

You'll just have to keep messing with it. Sometimes you can get a thin object in there and align them.

I have had some success aligning if I turned the engine upside down. Not easy with a 40.

 

[F_R]

Re: removed pivot pin

If you can see even half of the hole in the lever inside, grind or file a slight taper on the end of the pin, insert it so the pointy end enters the hole and as you rotate the pin while gently pushing it will automatically align everything and slip in. You can also gently move the shift lever a bit while looking in the hole to see if they come near to being in alignment and then use the above trick. Then warn everybody you know that that is not the drain plug.

 

[BF]

Re: removed pivot pin

when/if you do get it back together, put a dab of silicone over the head, so that you (or someone else) can't easily loosen it with a screwdriver. Usually they are philips head, and drain/fill screws are slotted.

Also, you might want to replace the seal on the pivot pin while it's out.

Good luck.

 

[mmdd]

Re: removed pivot pin

Thanks for the advice DWJ, FR, and BF... Success!!!
I cleaned the hole with a Q-tip and, after jiggling the shifter, saw the edge of the hole. A straightened paper clip, an awl and small punch lined it up beautifully and the pin went right in.