1988 Johnson 70 shift linkage

[DanDVM]

I've been wanting to change the impeller in my 1988 Johnson 70 hp but have been unable to find an easy way to disconnect the shift linkage to drop the lower unit. Have never done it on this engine. I can see the shift rod come into the upper housing behind and below the carbs. I have the Clymer manual but (as usual) it is of little help. None of the pictures or diagrams or the connectors look like my engine. I'm getting the factory manual but would like to get started. I searched the forum and the advice given for the later model 70 didn't seem applicable either. Can anyone help? Does the starter really have to come off as the Clymer manual says or is there an easier approach? Thanks.

 

[ob]

Re: 1988 Johnson 70 shift linkage

It is a lot easier to see if you pull the starter off.Anyway,on the starboard side of the engine pan there is a hitch pin that needs to be removed that contains the shift arm.Once the pin is removed,push in or to port on the shift arm and it will separate the split coupling that is containing the shift rod under the lower carb area..Might want to make up a couple of the lower unit bolts to relieve the weight from the rod before hand though.

 

[DanDVM]

Re: 1988 Johnson 70 shift linkage

Thanks ob for the quick reply. I see that hitch pin and feel like I now understand how to get the assembly loose. Everything else seems to look like the manual. Think I will take the starter loose so I can actually see what's happening. Thanks again. Dan

 

[ob]

Re: 1988 Johnson 70 shift linkage

10-4 Dan.If you have any more questions post back and one of the guys will help.

 

[theseewalds]

Re: 1988 Johnson 70 shift linkage

Dan, I am working on my '86 Evinrude 70 today to replace the water pump also. I had to remove the small cotter pin on the linkage going to the control cable in addition to the larger hitch pin, to allow me to push the horizontal shaft over enough to disengage. I did not remove the starter. Hope this helps.<br /> Greg

 

[DanDVM]

Re: 1988 Johnson 70 shift linkage

Gregg. Thanks for the extra advice on removing the small cotter too. That should help. Was pulled away before I finished the job. Have to wait till next weekend. Nice to have all you guys out there to give great tips.