Changing hydraulic lines on 1975 120HP Merc.

[FatBear]

When I bought the boat last spring I saw a lot of nice shiny new hydraulic lines inside and out. But I didn't notice the two remaining ones that had not been replaced. These both blew out this summer, resulting in much embarrassment, though no damage. It is difficult to maneuver when the prop is climbing out of the water in reverse and you don't know it!

So I bought the two new hoses, removed the batteries so I could lay down next to the engine (starboard side) and followed the lines beneath the rear of the engine where they disappeared from view. I don't have a mirror, but it feels like they turn and enter the outdrive. Is it possible to replace these two lines without removing the engine? And if so, can anyone tell me how?

Thanks,

FatBear

 

[Don S]

Re: Changing hydraulic lines on 1975 120HP Merc.

You need to remove the trim hose manifold from outside the boat, then you can access the hyd hose connections.

Here is a link to the service manual with details and pictures.
The manual is just over 1GB, so give it a lot of time to download.

http://www-alt.mercurymarine.com/mnetdata/SERVICE/CRUISER/Servmanl/02/cover.pdf

 

[FatBear]

Re: Changing hydraulic lines on 1975 120HP Merc.

Hi Don,
Thanks, for the advice and the link. Man, that is a big file! But I'll save it away for future use. And now I can see what I need to do.

--Brian