98-02 3.3 hp Mercury Outboard

[nickandm]

I recently bought a 3.3 hp merc outboard at a yardsale. I know it sat untouched for at least five years. The engine looks brand new, but I thought I should replace the impellor. It didn't come with a manual so I don't know how to do this. Is it difficult. Are there any tricks to it? Any help would be appreciated. - Nick

 

[Drindin]

Re: 98-02 3.3 hp Mercury Outboard

it's not tough but you would benefit in the long run by getting a manual. You never know but there might be other problems you don't know about yet. You might try your local library to see what they have in that line.

 

[nickandm]

Re: 98-02 3.3 hp Mercury Outboard

I removed the two lower bolts, but it only dropped down about an inch. I just need to know how to make it drop out completely and the rest shouldn't be hard. I heard their might be a catch on the newer models and wondered where that might be? any ideas? - Nick

 

[nickandm]

Re: 98-02 3.3 hp Mercury Outboard

I also have another question. How do you change the lower unit oil? And what kind of oil do you fill it with? - Nick

 

[Drindin]

Re: 98-02 3.3 hp Mercury Outboard

don't know about a "catch". It shouldn't just "drop". You may have to use a screwdriver to pry it a bit BUT not too hard. The lower unit uses gear lube that you can get at Walmart usually.

 

[Drindin]

Re: 98-02 3.3 hp Mercury Outboard

search in these forums for how to change lower unit lube. There are tons of posts!

 

[nickandm]

Re: 98-02 3.3 hp Mercury Outboard

Thanks for the info. I'll try it.

 

[nickandm]

Re: 98-02 3.3 hp Mercury Outboard

I checked the site for lower lube info. Found some good stuff. Changing that should be easy. But dropping this lower unit is not. I tried the screwdriver. Is there anything that could hold it back? Or should I just get a crowbar?

 

[Drindin]

Re: 98-02 3.3 hp Mercury Outboard

no, I wouldn't use a crowbar. I would suggest posting another "post" stating a "lower unit removal problem". Someone has had the same prob, I'm sure. Also, I know you searched the site for gear lube but have you tried lower unit removal?? This site has TONS of good info concerning just about any problem you might have. If one doesn't show it, another will. This site is THE best for do-it-yourselfers.