Lower unit installation

[THEJJL]

Hi guys a newbie here. I just bought a 77 Alumacraft Trihull with a 69 Rude 55 electric shift. It had a cracked lower unit which I am replacing with a lot of new info from this forum. I've got a question about the input shaft or whatever its called. Does it need to be greased with anything before I put the lower unit back on. If so, what kind. This is my first boat/motor so I appreciate all the info from you guys. Is there anything else special I should know before I put this on? The water pump tubes (I think thats what they are), the gasket, and the wires are all in place. Any help is appreciated.

 

[OBJ]

Re: Lower unit installation

Welcome JJL!<br /><br />Where you need some lube is on the driveshaft (what you called "input shaft") splines. A good lithium grease recommended but just abut anything will do. It helps keep the splines on the driveshaft from siezing to the mating splines in the crankshaft. You may have to turn the flywheel a little to get the splines to line up....just remember, turn it clockwise....always clockwise.<br /><br />A thin wire run down from the hole where the wire harness comes out at the block will help you guide the lead back in when you install the lower unit. <br /><br />A little grease on the water tubes will help let them slide back into the water pump housing grommets....make sure they line up.

 

[THEJJL]

Re: Lower unit installation

Thanks for the info. I will get some grease today and do that. One thing I didn't notice with this new L.U. is the the prop shaft is shorter. When I put all the bushings/spacers on the shaft and then the prop, the nut that holds the prop on doesn't go down far enough to get the cotter pin through the hole on the prop shaft. What size prop do I need?<br />Thanks again for the help.