Replacing Lower End Seals in a Outboard

[CChase]

Hope I can get some help here as I don't have a manual for my engine (I know, I know), but what I've got is a 1986 15hp Johnson and just before my fishing trip last weekend I drained the lower unit to change the lube. Soon as the plug came out, so did a bunch of water... :{



What I am trying to find out is if replacing the seals in the lower end is something a shade tree mechanic can do? Having never opened up a lower end, I don't know what's involved (i. e. any shafts have to be removed and replaced within a given tolerance). Is there any cause for concern with the difficulty of this job, or is this seal replacement as simple as unbolting the unit, pulling/scraping out the old seals and replacing?

 

[LandShark]

CChase: Just took a look at my SELOC repair manual, but it only goes back to 1996. Try your local library in the reference section or just ask.



Manual states that if the water has been in the lower unit for any length of time that a complete overhaul is necessary. If you caught it quickly, then it may just need a propeller shaft seal, which can be done without pulling the lower unit.

 

[CChase]

I don't think it is the prop shaft seal, reason being is it looks like the water has just been let in there and the motor hasn't been in water since last year only run a couple of times on a hose for winterizing and spring cleaning. I guess I'll talk to the marine shop when I go in to get the parts and see what they say, either that or just tear it apart and see what it looks like... .

 

[TORQUE THIS]

I know on my Volvo outdrive, I need "special tools" to remove and install beqings and seals. The prop shaft retainer is also torqued to 250 ft lbs...



I was quoted around 1100. 00 to have it rebuilt.



I have the same problem you have, if you aren't loosing oil but getting water, just keep changing out the oil every couple of trips out on the water. Fix it over the winter.

 

[JLEONARD]

I changed seals on an early 70s 6 hp Evinrude several years back... . it was a piece of cake. . but I had a manual.

Don't remember the details of the job, but it was straight forward.

Go to a Johnson dealer , order the parts, and ask them for a couple of quick pointers on what to do. They are usually willing to give you the postage stamp version.



Good luck.

Jay