1981 35 HP, broken "ear"

[G DANE]

The 2nd new owner of a 1981 35 HP that I rebuild years ago came to me with it today. Looks like the powerhead base bolts got loose somehow and the "ear" on side of powerhead, that the stud from mid section passes up thru, broke of. The stud opporsite broke in mid section. Can powerhead gasket be tight without this stud/nut. Any good advise of what to do, Or should I go looking for another block. Can "ear" be welded back on block, and hold torque ??

 

[DHPMARINE]

Re: 1981 35 HP, broken "ear"

I would keep an eye on it,and IF you see the gasket leaking,then see about welding the 'ear' back on.I think you'll need to pull the powerhead to do this,and the bottom (seal area) of the block needs to be smooth after the repair.<br /><br />DHP

 

[OBJ]

Re: 1981 35 HP, broken "ear"

A good tig welder could probably weld the ear back on GD....there's a little less heat with tig and the ear would probably hold the torque with no problem. I think I would also keep the halves bolted together during welding (if possible) to help drain away the heat and prevent warpage.<br /><br />I wouldn't be real keen about having the one powerhead bolt missing....most likely end up having a leak there after a while.<br /><br />Jim

 

[G DANE]

Re: 1981 35 HP, broken "ear"

It was leaking, in fact. I think the broken bolt on the other side led to vibrations, that broke the ear off. Besides from that ist still running fine. I've had another that broke one of those studs before, they seem to vibrate a lot.