1969 9.5 hp Lower Unit Crack

[lakelover]

I noticed this crack in the lower unit of my 1969 9.5 Johnson at the end of the summer. I haven't really noticed any change in performance except its general age-related tiredness. I took out the lower fill screw and drained out some oil. It looked OK and didn't seem to have any water in it. Is it likely to cause any problems? I was really surprised to discover it, haven't hit anything I know of and it has never frozen, it's always been stored inside in winter. Any thoughts?<br /><br />

 

[ezeke]

Re: 1969 9.5 hp Lower Unit Crack

There is a water drain there that exits through a small hole about 1.6" below the cavitation plate. That looks like a freeze break though it could be very old and just surfacing like that because of corrosion. I doubt that the break is any worse than what you see. An aluminum welder can patch that. If you don't find one by calling welding shops, check with the airport crews. If there is no water in the oil, finish the season and fix it this winter. That cavity doesn't go anywhere critical.

If all else fails, I've got a couple of spares and you can have one, but they are stripped.

 

[ledgefinder]

Re: 1969 9.5 hp Lower Unit Crack

FWIW, I have the exact same crack in a 1972 9.5hp.

 

[lakelover]

Re: 1969 9.5 hp Lower Unit Crack

Thanks for the info, I suppose it could be old and I just never noticed it. I've used the motor for a long time but just came into possession of it recently.<br /><br />ezeke, thanks for the offer, but I think I'll just let it ride.