OMC Cobra Lower Housing Froze! What now?

[eja]

Hello again guys...<br /><br />My 1986 Wellcraft froze the lower unit (water in the oil). The sides bulged on both sides, and has a ~3" crack on the passenger side which is leaking oil when the sun warms it up...<br /><br />Does anyone know if this is a hollow cavity, which can just be welded up? Or do I need to bite the bullet and replace...<br /><br />Thanks!

 

[jch7450]

Re: OMC Cobra Lower Housing Froze! What now?

Simple (not to be rude) Replace it. While your at it have the whole drive checked out for leaks and have all the seals replaced

 

[Don S]

Re: OMC Cobra Lower Housing Froze! What now?

If it bulged on both sides and cracked on one, you need a new drive, not just a case. You had to have almost all water and very little oil in there to break the case. And running a drive using water for lube is a sure way to destroy the bearings and gears.<br />Once you get your new or rebuilt drive on, be sure to change the gear lube at the end of the boating season, then if you find water you can fix it before it takes out another case.

 

[eja]

Re: OMC Cobra Lower Housing Froze! What now?

Thanks guys. I found a shop in IL that will replace with a "rebuilt" unit, new seals, gaskets, bench-tested, and a 1-yr warrantee for $500 exchange. Sound good?

 

[seahorse5]

Re: OMC Cobra Lower Housing Froze! What now?

That's quite a deal, but check it out carefully. The clutch dog, bearings, and a gear set run much more than that, and that does not include the labor.<br /><br />A reputable rebuilt gearcase runs in the neighborshood of $1200-$1500.<br /><br />The $500 one may just be a used unit and perhaps new propshaft seals. But, hey, for 5 big ones, you get back on the water.

 

[KaGee]

Re: OMC Cobra Lower Housing Froze! What now?

Yep, that's a deal.<br /><br />Like Seahorse said check it out.<br />My guess is that it's just a resealed unit.