Johnson 18 1957 FD-11 Lower unit removal Question

[Markstang]

Johnson FD-11

Do I understand correctly that the power head can be left on and that outside bolts and then the lower bolt in the side access (shifting linkage I think).

I want to fix my water emulsification problem. I wish I did nt feel like such a newby. I would rather change spaghetti seal and "O" ring seals first rather that shaft seals. I admit I am a visual person and understand how to pull the seal from some help here. I just want to get it right.

Can I get aviation sealant from NAPA?

Thanks in advance. Repair pictures will come later after some advice I am sure.

 

[lindy46]

Re: Johnson 18 1957 FD-11 Lower unit removal Question

No need to remove the powerhead. Just disconnect the shift rod from the coupler (under the little oval plate on the leg) and remove the bolts which hold the gearcase on. She'll drop right down. You can pressure test the lower unit once you've drained the oil, to see where the leak is. Most common source is the little seals/washers on the drain and vent bolts. Next is the propshaft seal which tends to get fishing line wrapped around it. Pressurize to around 10psi and submerse in water or just spray dish soap mixture on the seals to see where it's leaking. When I put it back together, I use Permatex #2 on the spaghetti seal, large o-ring around the propshaft bushing and on the skeg bolts.

 

[Markstang]

Re: Johnson 18 1957 FD-11 Lower unit removal Question

Thanks for the help. I replaced all seals and washers...except...argh...the shift o ring under that brass press ring and the prop shaft seal (special order)

If I still have leakage I only have the two to go and the experience to do it all over again.

One lovely mis hap. The linkage bolt took 45 minutes to get back in. Once in was missing forward gear. Took bolt out and saw a buggered thread and had to re-die the hole and get a new bolt.

I about had a heart attack when the gearing fell out of the bottom part into my other hand and I stared at it wondering if I could get it back together. I had to take it apart anyway....i just wanted a little more study time and pictures.

 

[Markstang]

Re: Johnson 18 1957 FD-11 Lower unit removal Question

I took her for a test run and the result was positive. I did not replace the shift linkage "o" ring because I did not have the removal tool but I was able to compress the brass grommet onto the existing "o" ring.

No milky lower unit oil.

 

[lindy46]

Re: Johnson 18 1957 FD-11 Lower unit removal Question

Great! Glad you got it fixed.