How would you replace a prop shaft seal

[oldgradywhite]

Hi I have a 1986 mercury 35hp. I am resealing my lower unit do to black nasty fluid I found in when I winterized it. I took it out one last time for and hour with fresh gear fluid and it was white so I bought a seal kit for it. I have replace all the other seals now have to install now it the prop seal. How do you replace it? Is it hard to do and what would I need to do it?

 

[Don S]

Re: How would you replace a prop shaft seal

If it's black, it doesn't have water in it. Merc Hi Performance gear lube turns black with use or overheat.
If you had water in it, it would be milky colored.

 

[Texasmark]

Re: How would you replace a prop shaft seal

If it comes to that, needing to replace the seal, on one occasion I fished it out from the rear with the carrier bearing intact. Have to be careful to not damage the propshaft or housing in the process. Several small holes in the metal supporting part and a right angled tool to start, then pliers. Otherwise the carrier bearing assy has to come out so that you can drive it out from the inside.

Mark