1996 Evinrude 6hp long shaft lower unit/ Ball bearings?

[edmaude]

I had my lower unit apart and in the process misplaced one of the two small ball bearings? Can I operate like this, or will it cause lower unit failure, or prevent proper shifting?

 

[racerone]

Those balls are for the shift function and drive the propshaft.----There are 2 for forward and 2 for reverse.---You must find the missing ball or confirm it is not inside the gear housing !------- all 4 must be in their proper place.

 

[Vic.S]

Those balls are for the shift function and drive the propshaft.----There are 2 for forward and 2 for reverse.---You must find the missing ball or confirm it is not inside the gear housing !------- all 4 must be in their proper place.

And are available as replacement parts for about $6 or less. 0332658 BALL, Drive