Lower Unit Seal Problem

[ptjones]

Ok so I got a 1978 55HP Johnson seahorse and I am trying to change the seal around the prop on the lower unit. I was wondering how to get the seals out to replace them. So far I tried loosening the three bolts behind the prop that I thought would allow the peace of metal that looks somewhat like a barbell to slide out but it wouldn?t move. I then tried to take the lower unit off but once I removed all the bolts it wouldn?t come off completely because it seems like the crake shaft is still connected to the motor in some way. So basically asking how do I change the seals on the lower unit that go around the prop.

Thanks and I appreciate anyone who has any knowledge about this situation

 

[Quick-man]

Re: Lower Unit Seal Problem

I am not sure if you have holes drilled in the bearing housing if you do then you may want to try a puller. To get my 75hp bearing housing out I took a pair of channel locks and reached around the center and twisted and pulled. You then can get the seal out with a simple tool from any auto parts store a seal puller. I have heard that sometimes the bearing housing is difficult to get out and that heat is used to help. I didn't have to do this, give the large pair of channel locks a try.

 

[wilde1j]

Re: Lower Unit Seal Problem

You're Using A Shop Manual, Of Course?

 

[ptjones]

Re: Lower Unit Seal Problem

After I unscrewed the three bolts I have tried the channel locks and the baring housing wouldn?t budge one bit. Is the bearing housing threaded or dose it just come straight with enough force. Are there any tricks that would make this easer?

 

[F_R]

Re: Lower Unit Seal Problem

It pulls straight out. If it has been used in salt water it will be very difficlut. Even fresh water it won't just fall out, you gotta pull on it. There is a big o-ring with gasket sealer on it. If it has threaded puller holes, use them. Otherwise a slide hammer with a hook end to get behind the webs in the housing. You will also need some guide studs to reinstall it. And new o-rings, including the ones on the screws. And some OMC/BRP Gasket sealer for the o-rings. You also need to clean up the hole where it came out from to prevent all the crud from being pushed back into the case. Get a manual!