Missing Thrust Washer?

[rcnations]

I have a 1987 Force 125 (I just purchased), and while inspecting the lower unit I found .045 end play on the prop shaft. I pulled it apart and found no thrust washer behind the clutch dog! Where can I find a .030 washer, give or take....or do I live with the .045 end play? Also the skeg was broken and shaped like a half moon. Should I just leave it, or take the time to weld it up....I can't get the pinion nut loose, so I hope it won't effect performance too much. Thanks, Curtis

 

[maxum247]

Re: Missing Thrust Washer?

Is the spacer stuck inside the forward gear?

My concern with replaceing the skeg by welding on a new one, would be that the heat from the welding process would melt the rubber seals in the lower unit, water pump area, seals etc. If the lower unit isn't "completely dissasembled."

 

[JoeCrow]

Re: Missing Thrust Washer?

I had a 1986 Force 125 and when I changed the prop, I found the same thing
No Thrust Washer
I installed the new prop and had the same end play as you have
The boat ran fine for the 2 years I had the motor

 

[rcnations]

Re: Missing Thrust Washer?

I agree about welding. I pulled the lower unit apart, thats how I know there is no thrust washer (this is the one behind the clutch dog). The only thing left is the forward gear and bearing. I think if they are loose they would be ok during welding. My question is how important is having "all" the skeg. I'm leaning towards leaving it. My main concern is the .045 play in the prop shaft. The gears look great, maybe I should just put it back together.

 

[maxum247]

Re: Missing Thrust Washer?

Could alway's put on a skeg guard if you have enough of the original skeg left to fasten to!

 

[rcnations]

Re: Missing Thrust Washer?

OK.....I found the thrust washer.....it was stuck to the forward gear!! Thanks for the tip Maxum247! So, where do I get a new one around .085 to .100?

 

[Matthew A.]

Re: Missing Thrust Washer?

Check online and Ebay as well as your local parts supplier that carries Force parts. I believe thrust washers are available from the mid .070's" thru the .090's" in increments of .002".