1979 Mercruiser 165, strange opening

[yjanray]

Hello,

I've got a Merc 1979 165. As you know, there are two stickers on the stern drive that say Mercruiser. On the starboard side of the drive, the sticker is torn, and there is an approximate 1.5-inch opening. Not sure what is supposed to be here, as the port side of the stern drive is covered with the sticker and i cannot feel a hole under the sticker. This hole has been there since I've had the boat (approximately 2 months). Any information as to what is supposed to be here or how I can repair it, if it needs repair. Attached is a picture, however it was taken with camera phone, so the resolution is bad. I will try to get a better pic soon.

Thanks,

 

[Bondo]

Re: 1979 Mercruiser 165, strange opening

Ayuh,... Your Picture is just a little red X....
Anyways,...
There's supposed to be a Welch Plug in that hole,...
I'd pull the drive,+ replace it...

 

[yjanray]

Re: 1979 Mercruiser 165, strange opening

what is the function of this welch plug? The boat has been in the water without this plug.

 

[Bondo]

Re: 1979 Mercruiser 165, strange opening

It keeps water Out of where it shouldn't be....

 

[yjanray]

Re: 1979 Mercruiser 165, strange opening

so where has water gotten now that the boat has been in the water. Would this leak inside the boat? Does the pic work now?

 

[Bondo]

Re: 1979 Mercruiser 165, strange opening

Ayuh,... The picture is now there,...

I don't remember if that cavity leads to the shifter cavity or Not,...
Regardless,...
The plug Belongs there for a Reason...

 

[yjanray]

Re: 1979 Mercruiser 165, strange opening

Thanks for the quick response. Now i just have to figure out how to get to the thing. Had the boat out recently, and noticed a minor amount of water in the bilge. Wonder if it is coming from here?

 

[Bt Doctur]

Re: 1979 Mercruiser 165, strange opening

Bondo ,your correct. It is the area that the shift slide resides.allows water to enter the lower shift cable core.