Can I flip a 6hp Johnson on it's head to put a washer in the lower unit oil fill hole?

[jimwalt]

Can I flip a 6hp Johnson on it's head to put a washer in the lower unit oil fill hole?

I have a 6hp 1977 Johnson (6R77M). I would like to find the replacement "washers" (if that's what they are called) for the lower unit that goes in with the bolts where you fill it with oil. What are these called , what size is needed and where do I get them? Also can I flip the motor on it's head (totally upside down) so that when I pull the bolt to put a new washer on I don't lose all my oil?

Thank you!!!!

 

[F_R]

Actually, OMC calls them washers. Most of us call them gaskets. Whatever you call them they are part number 311598 or Sierra Marine 18-4248 (ea) or 18-4248-9 (pkg of ?) or 18-42481-9 (pkg of 50). Most any outboard shop should have them, or get them right here at iboats.

 

[jimwalt]

I changed the title............ Now that I know I need the "washer" (Thank you F_R) I need to figure out the best way to get it in without losing all my oil. Can I flip the entire engine on it's head to pull the bolt, insert the washer and then flip back in the correct position? Or is that bad on the motor and whatever liquids might be inside? Thank you.

 

[wauto]

Lay motor on it's side.

 

[Bonaventure]

You can put the engine on a sawhorse, pull the plugs to drain the oil. Then put a pump adapter for the oil container in the lower position. pump in oil until it runs out of the top hole. put plug in top hole. Then tilt the motor up and rotate it until it is on its side. Remove pump.

 

[jbuote]

I guess I have to wonder why you don't want to change the lower unit oil?
​If you have reason to replace those washers, then there's probably water in the oil.
​I may still be new, but I BELIEVE (could be wrong) that If you have oil leaking out, then you have water getting in...

If that's the case, then you should change the oil anyway..

​EDIT: Unless you're doing this simply for peace of mind... lol

​Just a thought.. :joyous:

 

[F_R]

To answer your direct question, yes you can flip it upside down, if you think you must. BUT only if you can start and run it a few minutes when you get done. Reason is, any water trapped in the lower end can run into the powerhead's exhaust ports and cause severe damage if left there. In other words, turning any motor up beyond horizontal is considered very bad practice.

 

[SweetD]

Just change the oil while you're at it - it's only a few bucks!

 

[JohnnyGuy]

I guess I have to wonder why you don't want to change the lower unit oil?

I'm assuming he's changing the LU oil and doesn't want to lose any when he is fidgeting around with trying to get the screw back in the drain hole.
If that is the case, then unless the OP has a physical condition that limits his ability to do this somewhat quickly, I wouldn't think that the amount of LU oil lost during this process would be of any great concern.