1989 60HP Evinrude Lower Unit Questions

[Steve22]

My lower unit is making a grinding noise. I admit I hadn't change the lower unit oil in a few years and after pulling the boat and checking it right away I find there was nothing to drain, it was dry and few very small steel particles on the magnet. My question is...Does the lower unit need to be rebuilt? Would I be wasting my time by refilling and running to test? I used it gently as soon as I began to hear the noise. You guys have been most helpful to me in the past, thanks for any advise!

 

[Daviet]

Re: 1989 60HP Evinrude Lower Unit Questions

No water in it, what happened to the oil?
I would think if you had metal particles on the magnet, you should pull it apart and check it out.

 

[Steve22]

Re: 1989 60HP Evinrude Lower Unit Questions

No water in it, what happened to the oil?
I would think if you had metal particles on the magnet, you should pull it apart and check it out.

No water came out. As far a what happened to the oil, I have no idea. I had the seals replaced in 2001 as a preventative measure and I used to replace the oil every year but have not since 2003, boy am I ashamed to admit that, how time flies. It doesn't get used much,.. maybe 15-20 hours each summer in salt water, always trailered and rinsed with fresh water.
I'm a little hesitant to pull it apart, never had one apart before. I'm willing and able to give it a shot. Can I get a schematic or instructions somewhere?

 

[Daviet]

Re: 1989 60HP Evinrude Lower Unit Questions

Your best bet is to go ahead and get the FACTORY manual, look over the section on overhauling the lower unit, see if it something you think you can handle.

 

[Big Old Blue]

Re: 1989 60HP Evinrude Lower Unit Questions

Best bet would be to get yourself a service manual for your engine. This way you'll know how to service your own engine as well as have some schematics to look at.