lower end removal problems/70hp merc

[CCfisher]

Attempting tp change the impellar on mid to late 80's model 70hp merc. I believe I have all the nuts loose. One holding the trim tab, one under the tab, and two on the side. The nuts in the side will not completely unscrew because there is not enough room. The lower end dropped down maybe a 1/8 of an inch. Is there something I have not unbolted? Also the motor will not tilt so I am doing this while its in its running position. Does this matter?

 

[AMD Rules]

Re: lower end removal problems/70hp merc

Would that motor be run in salt water?<br /><br />Sounds like your drive shaft may be stuck in the splines at the top under the powerhead. Try some wooden wedges to assist with prying it loose.

 

[CCfisher]

Re: lower end removal problems/70hp merc

Yes it is running in saltwater. The nuts on the side are pressing against the bottom of the drive shaft caseing and should be pushing the lower unit down but they will only push this so far. I have tried to wedge it off to no avail. I broke part of the lower caseing doing so. Only superficial break thankfully, but Im going crazy here trying to get this thing off.

 

[AMD Rules]

Re: lower end removal problems/70hp merc

That's unfortunate. This is something that just happens from time to time, especially in salt water. <br /><br />Did you see this thread?<br /><br />Topic: How much force can I use without damaging my crank? <br /><br />.

 

[CCfisher]

Re: lower end removal problems/70hp merc

Thx AMD, the drive shaft was stuck but I finally got it apart. I was just afraid I was going to break it. I had never worked on a outboard and I wasnt sure if I had everything disconnected.

 

[Rovernaut]

Re: lower end removal problems/70hp merc

I have had trouble removing my lower unit on 2 occassiions. It did the same as you write.<br /> I found that after all the nuts are off except the outer 2, I managed to work it off by placing a spacer , like a spanner that fit between the stud and the middle casing, then by further unscrewing the outer bolts up tight onto the spacer it will exert pressure and slowly 'jacks' the lower unit away and allows removal.