lower unit question 1996 Johnson

[rod builder]

Hey guys I'm new to your forum but I need help. Had issue (sound) with my lower unit (1996 Johnson). Took it to the shop and they say the upper bearing came apart and went into the gear case and took out the lower unit. They said it was due to low lube.

My question is concerning a the replacement of a water pump two months ago by the same shop. When a water pump is changed do they have to replace the lube? It sounds odd to me that they are now saying I blew the lower unit out by not maintaining the lube level.

Any thoughts?

 

[Dhadley]

Re: lower unit question 1996 Johnson

It would help to know what size motor it is. Some have a spiral on the lower part of the driveshaft that keeps that bearing lubed. The oil would have to be almost non existant for it not to get oil.

You don't have to change oil when you do a water pump but I don't know of anybody who doesn't. Unless you just changed the oil. Look at your bill for the pump. If you were charged for oil, then it's on them.

Regardless if they changed it or not it's hard to believe they didn't at least check it.

 

[rod builder]

Re: lower unit question 1996 Johnson

Sorry about that, Ask me questions about rod building an I can talk. I don't know much about outboards.

It is a Johnson 150.

Do you have thought's on a replacement lower unit? they are saying $3,075

 

[Dhadley]

Re: lower unit question 1996 Johnson

I hope that's for a new Lightning gearcase. Even then it's too much.

Look here at iboats and see what they get for a reman.

Where are you located?

 

[rod builder]

Re: lower unit question 1996 Johnson

I'm in Kansas City, Missouri. All he told me was they only use OEM remanufactured lower units. I'm going over there either tomarrow or Thrusday. I'm faily mechanical, I've rebuilt engines in cars, etc... If I buy a reman from this site could I install it with a manual?

He did say the case was bad so I guess that rules out and internal or partial replacement.

 

[Dhadley]

Re: lower unit question 1996 Johnson

So they want 3K for a reman? Wow.

Yes, buying a lower is a very simple install, no big deal. Just like changing a water pump.

 

[jonesg]

Re: lower unit question 1996 Johnson

http://springfield.craigslist.org/boa/803533588.html

$500 for a J150.

 

[rod builder]

Re: lower unit question 1996 Johnson

Thanks For the help Guys. I will see how it goes.

I had no idea a lower unit off a 1986 would work. But that boat would make a great duck blind.


Mr. Dhadley I would like to reserve a followup chat when I decide what to do. But I really appreciate your help.

 

[Dhadley]

Re: lower unit question 1996 Johnson

A crossflow lower will work (like the one mentioned) but you will have to modify the upper splines and possibly the area right below the splines. There are plenty of lowers around for a 60* V6.

 

[Dhadley]

Re: lower unit question 1996 Johnson

Funny, I just read on another website about a dealer who has a new 150 E-Tec in the box and he'll ship it for 11,000.

Let's see.....3,000 out of pocket or finance 11,000 (8,000 if you use the same 3 out of pocket) for a new motor with a warranty.....hummmm......hard choice.