Re: 1989 force 15 hp lower unit problems
Ok! The water indicates a leaking seal, either on the prop shaft or on the drive shaft below the water pump. Another area could be where the shift rod is sealed into the gearcase. Lastly, check the gaskets under the fill and drain plugs. These parts are available either through your Mercury dealer or online. While you have the water pump off, you may as well replace the impeller.They are not too expensive. Even though you boat in muddy water, the water in the lower unit will look clear.
The prop has a rubber hub to "cushion" the gears and help prevent damage to the gears or prop shaft if you strike something while running. Maybe! If the prop has moved forward over the thrust pin, this indicates that there is possibly something behind the prop forcing it forward. This will make it difficult to turn by hand. Reach in behind the prop if possible with a thin tool to see if there is fishing line or rope or something similar that needs to be cut out. If this does not allow the prop to move back away from the thrust pin, you will need to force it back. The thrust pin holds the prop in forward and backward position on the prop shaft. If you cannot get it out, the onlly other option you have is to try to drill clearance on the prop or destroy the prop.
If the prop has moved on the hub, and does not return to its original position, this indicates that the rubber cushion has moved and most probably the hub will need to be replaced. Your marina can send it out to a prop shop or, you can check iboats for replacement props. in this size they are not too expensive. Probably pretty close to replacement prop cost.
Once you get the prop off, check the shaft. sometimes fishline or rope can score it and / or ruin the seal.
