Lower End Advice

[wmsclan]

Just finished pulling my lower end and tested it out with air pressure and found a major leak around the electric shift cover, no cover gasket (1969 Evinrude 55 HP w/electric shift). Also, no leak around the drive shaft seal until I rotated it and giggled it a bit and then identified a small leak. Figured I would replace the seal and get a gasket for the shift cover and think I will resolve my water in the oil problem (I hope). Question is, how in the world would I be getting water around the shift cover on the top of the lower unit and how long should the plastic tubes be that come up off the water pump. The ones that are currently on there may be 1 1/2 - 2 inches long. Also, should there be any type of gasket or sealant between the water pump housing and the lower unit assembly and is there a need to put any sealant between the lower unit and upper unit. New at this and trying to fix all these little problems before they become big ones.

 

[12Footer]

Re: Lower End Advice

WMS, All the seals and gaskets you will need come in the kit.<br />The upper part of the motor leg is not water tight.The main consern with the water pump tube is to make sure it (and shift rod and driveshaft) is lined-up properly before bolting it together. You wil;l note that the plastic discharge piece is tapered. This is so,because it seats inside the leg tube, no gaskets or seals required.<br /> You should be ok there. However, if you haven't done so yet, replace the impeller,regardless of it's condition.

 

[12Footer]

Re: Lower End Advice

As usual, I forgot a few things.<br />Make sure the prop shaft and driveshaft are smooth and pit-free where the seals ride.<br />If not,take them to a machine shop and have them built-up and turned down smooth. If they are allready smooth and have no pits,you should be fine. Many times, you'll find the shafts worn-down a bit by the seals.As long as it is worn smoothly,with no major grooves, the seals will seat ok,regardless of shaft O.D.Both shafts must be free of bends.If you find the prop shaft the least bit bent, it should be replaced or straightened at the machine shop.<br /> Well, I hope I haven't forgoten anything,and that you are on the water next weekend.<br /><br />If you dont have the manual, you will probably need one for tourqe specs.

 

[evin300]

Re: Lower End Advice

Hi wmsclan, I would urge you to get a manual before going further. My lower unit test specifies a pressure test to 3-6psi, if leakage is indicated, submerge in water, if no leakage, increase pressure to 16-18psi if no leakage you are ok. Next vac. test (note both of these tests are performed with no oil in LU) Screw in Vac. tester, pump 3-5 inches mercury and see if it holds, if it holds, pump out to 15 inches, if fails to hold either test, put oil around suspect seal, if leak stops or oil is drawn in, then defect is found.<br /><br />With my motor, water is always surrounding the top of lower unit, its the water combined with exhaust gas that prevents the impeller from burning up, thats why you should never start your motor without water, as the hot exhaust flame will cook your impeller inside its housing.<br /><br />Now please buy a manual before you find out the hard way just how valuable they are!!