1971 9.5hp Johnson - need help dropping lower unit

[torpeteo]

Greetings, I am working through a tune-up on an old 1971 Johnson 9.5hp Johnson outboard. I want to drop the lower unit to inspect the water pump and replace the impeller.<br /><br />I have removed the 4 bolts that attach the lower unit to the rest of the motor. [prop is removed and gear case oil drained for what it's worth] According to my shop manual, the unit should drop about an inch, allowing removal of a final screw/bolt to disengage the drive.<br /><br />After removing the 4 bolts, I can only get the lower unit to drop about 1/4". I have wiggled and pulled, but am reluctant to do anything too aggressive in fear of breaking something.<br /><br />Any hints or clues? I have tried being in different gears, and rotating the flywheel, nothing seems to help.<br /><br />Thanks, PeteO

 

[iRich]

Re: 1971 9.5hp Johnson - need help dropping lower unit

Hi, See if there is an adjusting nut for the shift linkage on the side of the motor between the powerhead and lower linkage. It should be a long nut that holds to the linkage together if you have one. If so mark its position somehow and loosen it allowing the l/u to drop a bit more so you can get to the screw you are trying to get. It may be different on your motor...i have a chrysler and that is what I do.<br /><br />Rich

 

[torpeteo]

Re: 1971 9.5hp Johnson - need help dropping lower unit

Thanks for the reply - I don't see this on my motor (but do keep in mind I'm a rookie). I'm on the edge of taking it into a pro here in Seattle... although I am trying my best to avoid the cost. <br /><br />I'll read the manual one more time to see if I can tease any more potential secrets out of its cryptic text.<br /><br />peteo

 

[slow_boat]

Re: 1971 9.5hp Johnson - need help dropping lower unit

Had the same problem w/my 9r-69s 9.5. Regardless of where I placed the shift lever I still could not gain proper access to the shift rod release clamp. There *is* a shift linkage adjustment inside the clamshell housing that, if loosened, will allow the lower unit to drop a bit further. I am a novice who ordered a manual 2 weeks ago and still have not recieved it so do not rely to heavily on my advice. Currently, *my* 9.5 is reduced to the inner core and the clamshell while I seek out a shock absorber replacenment for the leg. I was able to drop my lower unit but the splined shaft separated from the prop gear casing instead of the powerhead crankshaft. So far as I can tell this is not a problem when replacing lower unit shaft seals.<br /><br />Hope this helps....love those old Johnson/Evinrudes...am currently restoring a '58 QD-19 10HP Johnson as well