BF60 Lower unit set up

[stabi430]

Does anyone know if it is possible to set up Honda BF60 lower unit without the factory tools. I want to replace the bearings and drive shaft. I need to check and adjust the preload on the bearings with new shims. Do I need to proper tools or is there another way to do this

 

[ahicks]

I've replaced a few of the 40-50hp horizontal drive shafts and they've been fine when reassembled using the same shims on reassembly. In fact, the newer ones (04-06) didn't even use any shims. Have been lucky regarding vertical shafts. Haven't had to do one of those (yet).

That said, I haven't had a new style lower unit, like those used on the fuel injected engines (D models), opened up yet. Looks to be a similar design to the 75-90hp motors, so i imagine I'll probably just dive in when I get to one of those. Learning the hard way is my usual way of doing things though....

 

[stabi430]

Thanks, BF60 is different to 75-90hp and 40-50D, looks like the 60 is all on its own, I have to replace the vertical shaft because the needle roller bearing just up from the drive pinion has collapsed and munched up the shaft. From my research this happened on other BF60’s, my motor has only done 60 hours and is out of warranty

 

[ahicks]

Needle bearing runs directly on the shaft I suppose?

Out of pure curiosity -
Is there a clear issue involved? Or is this a likely result of low oil level in the gear case? How high is the vent as compared to that needle bearing? In other words, if there is lube running from the vent, will the needle bearing be submerged in lube, or is the bearing located above the vent?

 

[stabi430]

Yes needle bearing runs directly on the shaft, it looks like the bearing surface on some drive shafts in these BF60’s are soft, ie: the bearing wears through the hardening on the shaft then the bearing fails putting fines through the gear case. And no it’s not an oil level problem. Anyway back to my original question...when replacing the other bearings I need to select the correct size shims to set the bearing/pinion gear preload. Any ideas ? I hear you say...why don’t you just go to your local dealer and get them to do it, well, lets say we are not seeing eye to eye at the moment.

 

[ahicks]

I hate dealers..... There are a few good ones, but most..... let's just say they are not.

Myself, I would use the existing shims and reassemble carefully. But I'm just a shade tree mechanic working on these because I enjoy the challenge.