2003 Mercury 125hp water jacket gasket leak

[propscares]

Was wondering if this is something I could repace myself? Ive heard when dealing with salt water engines like mine you run a risk of bolts snapping off in the process of removing the plate. Any advice? I like to hear any bodies experience with this. Thanks in advance- Mike

 

[pigeon laker]

Re: 2003 Mercury 125hp water jacket gasket leak

I just finished doing mine on a 115(not salt water).It was actually pretty easy,except for scraping the old gasket off and waiting 2 weeks to get the gaskets.I has an increase in performance also and will be getting a new prop since I am now getting 400 rpm's more.

 

[westexasrepublic]

Re: 2003 Mercury 125hp water jacket gasket leak

I did mine on a freshwater outboard and still broke off 4, turn slow and use penetrating oil like PB Blaster, have a pair of vice clamps to do your best to remove studs if you do happen to break off a few bolt heads. a few stud that I couldnt get off I cut flush and bought sharp expensive bits to slowly redrill and tap. it probably would hurt but I also retapped and cleaned all the other holes as well. dont waste your money on OEM bolts, Lowes had all the ones I needed, and use antiseize when reinstalling.

 

[Faztbullet]

Re: 2003 Mercury 125hp water jacket gasket leak

lots of heat!!!