[revkab]

I have a 1968 55hp Evinrude Triumph (electric shift) that I just bought and before I get it going, I want to do a few maintenance things to it.

I want to change out the impeller. I have the factory service manual and it seems to want me to methodically disassemble the whold engine in order to do anything. Is this necessary? Can I simply remove the screws on the gearcase assembly where it bolts to the exhaust housing and access the water pump that way? Or must I disassemble everything?

I also plan on changing the lower unit gear lube (type C) which should be simple enough. Anything else I should check out before I get it going?

Oh, yeah. I assume (usually a big mistake) this model/year motor does NOT have a "tell tale" or "pee" hole to check the water pump function?

Thanks.

[bhile]

You can just drop it but be sure to tie a piece of strong string to the shift solenoid wires before you pull them all the way out. That will make it so much easier when re-installing. Put new gaskets on the drain and vent plugs when you change the oil in the L/U.

[F_R]

If yours has two Vent screws, remove both of them before filling the gearcase oil. Some early ones only had one and wouldn't fill completely. If you have one like that, fill it and then recheck the oil level after running it a couple of outings. Note: they eventually vented them internally so the two vents were no longer necessary.

Water blowing out the relief holes in the back are your "tell-tale".

[revkab]

OK, that sounds good so far. I have inquired at my local marina and they tell me they should have the gaskets/seals for the two screws - I will get them. They also tell me they have the Type C gear lube. They carry it in tubes. Is there a way to get the lube in larger volumes? My manual tells me I need 37.2 ounces of te stuff and the tubes the marina carries are pretty small.

You all have helped me a lot by telling me I can simply "drop" that lower section to access the impeller. Any "tricks" or tips you can give me about further disassembly or installation of the new impeller?

Thanks, I appreciate your help.

[F_R]

Only that you have to remove the trim tab and the hidden bolt above it.
EDIT: Oh, and when you get the lower unit off, look up on the water tubes and you will find two plastic tubes. Pull them off the tubes and stick them in the recesses in the water pump cover. They are to guide the tubes during reasembly when you can't see what you are doing up in there. Oil the tube grommets so they slip in easy.