More problems - Merc 400

[lindy46]

One problem after another working on this motor. I'm trying to pull the flywheel to replace the timing belt. I have a fairly expensive harmonic balance puller that came with a variety of hardened bolts. NONE of them will fit the threads on the flywheel. I tried numerous bolts I had in the shop hoping I would find a match so I could go purchase three hardened bolts to work on this flywheel. Did Mercury make a special bolt so no-one can work on this motor themselves? Frustrating.

 

[Chinewalker]

Re: More problems - Merc 400

They are 1/4-in. 28tpi bolts. Should be able to get a set of grade 8s at the local hardware store...

 

[lindy46]

Re: More problems - Merc 400

Actually, 1/4" was too small and 3/8" was too big, so I took a chance and got some grade 8 5/16"x24 bolts, and they fit! Maybe tomorrow I'll tackle pulling that flywheel, once I rest up, meditate on the subject and ask for intervention from the Mercury Gods! I'm sure it won't be as easy as pulling a Johhnyrude flywheel - nothing has been easy on this motor. Anyone want to trade a nice 45hp Merc for a 40hp Johhnyrude?

 

[lindy46]

Re: More problems - Merc 400

WOW! Got the flywheel off with little problem and changed out the timing belt. All back together within an hour! Now it's on to the impeller, as soon as I find the dang spanner tool to remove the water pump cover. Been looking on Ebay for several months and no luck. Well, I've got lots of time before Spring arrives.