85 force lower unit

[829]

So how I broke the fin that helps with steering the boat. The fin that is molded to the lower unit and behind the propeller. I am not sure what happened, but when I got home the safety bracket that holds the engine up was snapped off and my engine was down.

Is there anything that can be done or am I going to have to replace the lower unit?

 

[baxtr]

Re: 85 force lower unit

that is the skeg, take it to a marine repair shop and they can weld on a new one, hopefully no other damage was done. I had a new one welded on this summer, cost me bout 100 +

 

[829]

Re: 85 force lower unit

$100? Could I not just buy another damaged lower unit and transfer the guts? I have seen a few online for about $40.

 

[baxtr]

Re: 85 force lower unit

Sure, if you feel you can de-gut and re-gut 8)

 

[829]

Re: 85 force lower unit

Is it that hard?

 

[baxtr]

Re: 85 force lower unit

tore down and rebuilt my 125 powerhead but never had my lower unit apart, so I am not sure how difficult that would be, someone will answer that one I am sure

 

[roscoe]

Re: 85 force lower unit

A $40 lower unit? Good luck. Most are in the $99-$400 range.
Usually the shipping will cost you $40-$60
Then of course you will need a new seal kit to put in it. ($59)
And if you will need a GOOD manual to walk you through it. ($40)
Not sure about that model, but on most, you will need a few special tools. ($?)

The skeg is there to protect the propeller and gearcase, not to steer the boat.

Get an estimate for repair, from a local shop.
Or, run it the way it is.

 

[829]

Re: 85 force lower unit

I have seen a few "not working" for $40.

But I did not think about the added cost of gasket.

I have called around and only one shop gave me an estimate $120 - $130, if there is enough to weld to.

 

[829]

Re: 85 force lower unit

Does the skeg not have anything to do with the handeling?

 

[roscoe]

Re: 85 force lower unit

Very little to do with handling.
If it gets bent/twisted, it can cause the boat to pull to one side or the other.

It is there to protect the propeller from impacts.