85hp force engine swapout

[additup12]

i am swapping out an 85 hp 1989 force outboard on a 17' maxum. I am all set to hoist the engine, except for the steering rod. How would you disconnect the steering rod from the motor mount without pulling the whole stearing cable? If I had to guess, i have to hoist the engine and pull the rod through, but its 300 lbs and i dont want to be messing with that baby while its in the air if i dont have to. Any suggestions?

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: 85hp force engine swapout

You pretty much said it! Unscrew the steering cable nut. Then loosen the engine and slide it to the port side of the transom as far as it will go. then try to pull out the steering cable. If the Maxum has a smaller splashwell, then you really have no choice but to remove the engine and pull the cable while the engine is off the transom.

And the engine is only 275 lbs. Two men and a boy can handle it. Make it easier? remove the hood and lower unit. Now it is only 225 lbs.