I really did it this time...lower unit?

[USCG Flyer]

I have a '99 120 on my boat and decided to take it out for a short trip the other day. On the way back in we heard a second or two of grinding and then a loud POP. Engine tached way up and I shut it down. When I started back up the motor had no forward gear, I wound up going the last 1/2 mile back to the dock in reverse. So it would seem reverse works fine. I did change the lower unit oil a couple weeks ago and it did have some metal in it but nothing that screamed out there was a problem. Anyone have this happen before? Is it a easy fix? I did look up a lower unit at a few places and it was almost cheaper to buy a used motor and ditch the Force.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: I really did it this time...lower unit?

UHHH! ANY metal in the lower unit oil screams for attention.

You have undoubtedly broken at least several teeth on the forward gear. Most likely the reverse gear is damaged as is the pinion, but since they get so little force against them, they functioned to get you back. Undoubtably, most if not all of the bearings are beyond use also.

A used lower from ebay, if you can find one, is the best option at this point

 

[USCG Flyer]

Re: I really did it this time...lower unit?

Thank you for the reply sir! I had bought a manual for the motor and it stated a small amount of metal on the plug was no reason for concern...I'm taking it I should find another manual?

Without having it even torn down at this point, or even off the boat, I have been pricing out lowers, most in the $1600 to $2000 range. I have found a rebuilt 140 Evinrude from a retutable shop that will literally cost me only only a couple hundred more. Is this an option in your opinion? I know the Force /Merc is not a bad motor generally, but in a effort to get a better availability of parts and a motor with a warranty would you consider this a better option than spending almost as much on the Force to get it back in the water? Should I make the jump now?

 

[roscoe]

Re: I really did it this time...lower unit?

Unless you are in a hurry, wait it out and pick one up on ebay for $300-$600