lower unit clanging sound

bobafett

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jun 19, 2005
Messages
38
I have a 1986 Mecr 140 Alpha 1 and I hear a clanging sound from the lower unit- not sure if it is coming lower or upper. What could this be? Mechanic (not sure if trustworthy) I took it to said this sound isn't normal and thatit might be gimbal bearing or u joint or even something worse. He gave me an estimate for joints,bearing and new impeller plus labor of $500- is that good? <br />Is there any way I can diagnose myself without taking lower unit off? What are the signs of a bad gimbal and u joint and what does a bad one look like? Easy to do myself? Does the lower unit have to be fully lowered before you take it off? Do you have to use a hoist as Clymer recommends?
 

bobafett

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jun 19, 2005
Messages
38
Re: lower unit clanging sound

How many hours does it take a novice to disassemble/reassemble the lower unit?
 

hoot

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Sep 8, 2002
Messages
434
Re: lower unit clanging sound

BF, the sound might be the shift clutch not engaging the gears completely. Mine had a similar noise. I adjusted the shift cable and the noise went away. You might be able to isolate the noise by using the screwdriver to the ear trick while running on muffs. WATCH OUT FOR THE PROPELLER!!! I had removed my prop and did not have the noise, but with it in place, the sound was there. And i am not sure that a novice can disassemble/reassemble the lower unit. There are some special pullers and wrenches that have to be used to get things apart and out.
 
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