1st post, steering shaft question.

[speed6357]

Hello everyone.
I need to replace the steering shaft on a 1994, 140 hp long shaft Johnson engine. I've procured a great condition used shaft, and it appears that it only attaches to the engine in three locations. Two bolts attach to the front of the powerhead, and one thrust nut attaches to the bottom of the shaft above the cavitation plate. Is this correct? I've read a few posts on forums that insinuate that the powerhead needs to be removed in order to replace the steering shaft, but I'm confused as to why. I appears that I could remove the existing thrust nut from the bottom of the splined shaft, and then just lift the engine clear of the transom mount bracket with the existing shaft still attached to the engine. What am I missing?
Thanks for any insight that you could provide.
John

 

[durban]

Re: 1st post, steering shaft question.

fair enough you will probably get the bottom nut off but the steering arm has got long bolts going through rubber mounts to the steering arm & the only way to get them out is off the power head ,no short cut here . cheers

 

[speed6357]

Re: 1st post, steering shaft question.

Thanks Durban,
I guess I figured that you could remove the two bolts without actually removing the powerhead from the engine. I haven't gotten that far yet, so I guess I'll see soon!
John