Engine clatters in forward

[cov62431]

I have a 98 Johnson 115 Ficht. Model number:J115FSLECS. <br /> I was out fishing last weekend when on the way back to the landing a clattering noise begain and progressively got worse. I was running between 4500 and 5000 RPM intermittently staying primarily around 4500. I stopped in the water and shifted into neutral, engine idled fine and I revved it a couple times. Sounded good. Put back into gear (forward) and accelerated slightly, still had noise. I then stopped and put it in reverse and accelerated slightly. No noise. By this time I was close to the landing so I idled into the landing (approx 1 mile). I'm figuring it's a gear in the lower unit, but wanted to see if those of you with actual knowledge of engines could steer me in the right direction. Like I said I'm really guessing here.<br /> Thanks in advance for any help you can give me.<br /><br />Jamey

 

[Goodoleboy]

Re: Engine clatters in forward

I would suspect you have a chiped tooth on the forward gear. <br /><br />Since noise goes away in reverse its likley pinion gear is still ok, but wont be for long unless new forward gear is instaled.<br /><br />Drain oil from lower unit and check for metal particles.<br /><br />Good luck!

 

[cov62431]

Re: Engine clatters in forward

Thanks Lee,<br /> I checked the drain plugs and did find metal. The oil was also grayish in color. Now I am planning to get a clymer manual and look into taking the lower unit off myself. Is rebuilding a lower unit very difficult? I do have a mechanical background (from my job in the Army), I just don't want to dive into something and be in over my head. Is there anything I need to pay particular attention to, any tricks of the trade? Or would I just be better off buying a rebuilt lower unit?

 

[Goodoleboy]

Re: Engine clatters in forward

Overhauling lower unit is purty easy really. I wouldnt order any new parts until you get it apart and cleaned up.<br /><br />You will need to rig a gear puller of sorts to get the unit apart. Manual will show you how.<br /><br />Idd guess you will spend less than 200 bucks to do it your self. New one will cost around 1500 or more.<br /><br />I like the OEM manuals better than clymer or seloc. But any manual is better than no manual I spect.<br /><br />Good Luck!