Johnson 4hp lower unit fix

[Beakster]

Hi,

I got a 1972 4hp. I was doing the water pump and when I rotsted the drive shaft to get the housing on, it lifted. Now the manual says I need to dismantle the lower unit to re-engage it.

Any suggestions on how to get these screws out? The won't budge. I expect I'll need replacement screws once I get them out and ideally a rebuild kit for the lower unit to replace any seals. Does such a kit exist? If not what parts should I buy before I pull it apart.

Photo of screws here https://ibb.co/GsN7Bcn

Thanks

 

[racerone]

Turn the unit up-side down.----Try and poke the driveshaft up and into the pinion gear.----Works for me every time.

 

[Beakster]

Turn the unit up-side down.----Try and poke the driveshaft up and into the pinion gear.----Works for me every time.

Thanks. I managed to get it back in.

I'd still like to rebuild the lower unit at some point so interested in answers to the above.

 

[racerone]

Propane torch and heat the housing.----Aluminum expands at twice the rate of steel.-----Screws usually come out.