Say...how'd that get there?

[gjonz]

Started nibbling away at my secondary RD18 Johnson. Thought I take a gander at the ignition system. couldn't seem to get the nut off the flywheel. Soaked for a few days with penetrating oil. NO DICE!

Finally tonight I clamped the flywheel steady and broke the nut loose. I found out why it seemed tight...overly tight.

There was a lock washer under it. Is the normal? I don't recall seeing on on my other 30 HP. BUt maybe I just done remember it.

Checked my books, and the diagrams didn't seem to show anything either.

Greg

 

[F_R]

Re: Say...how'd that get there?

They started using the thinner nut with a lockwasher somewhere around 1957 or '58. Many were retrofitted to older models. That's OK.

 

[gjonz]

Re: Say...how'd that get there?

Ah ha! That would explain it. I guess I'll put it back where I found it when the time comes.

Thanks a bunch!

Greg

 

[samo_ott]

Re: Say...how'd that get there?

Wow, I don't think I've ever seen a lock washer on my engines, must just be forgetful then!

 

[gjonz]

Re: Say...how'd that get there?

Upon further inspection...it appears there is a reason for the washer. The nut had been crossthreaded. Therefore by turning is "upside down" and adding a washer...it was still usable.

The hunt is on for a new nut if anyone has one laying around.

Greg

 

[F_R]

Re: Say...how'd that get there?

That nut MUST be torqued to 60-65 ft/lbs. Failure to do that will cause the key to shear and possibly destroy the flywheel and/or crankshaft. I hope your threads are up to taking that much torque.

 

[gjonz]

Re: Say...how'd that get there?

Fortunately it is the nut that has fouled threads. The crankshaft threads are perfect. I double checked that right away. The Woodruff key is okays as well as the keyway in the flywheel.

I just need to find a nut I suppose.

Thanks!

Greg

 

[F_R]

Re: Say...how'd that get there?

The thick nut is a standard hardware store item.

 

[Randybeall]

Re: Say...how'd that get there?

If you go to a hardware store for it make sure you get a grade 5 or higher nut. The standard construction grade in that size would be grade 2 and that is not hard enough to take the torque properly.