Newbie removing lower end on Mercury 115 4 stroke...

[Raycaster]

I have to remove the lower end of my engine for seal replacements that a friend has volunteered for. Great except I have never removed the lower end before. Watched every video possible and looks like I can handle it. The only thing making be nervous is the mention of "possible" linkage that will be required to loosen off.

I have looked in the area and can only find this possible nut that can be loosened off.
I have included a picture if anyone can verify this or not.

Any help appreciated.

Engine: 115ELPT4S NOV 2006 1B42****
Boat: Legend 18 Xcalibur 2006

 

[racerone]

I would not be loosening that.------You may find that the shift shaft is splined and nothing to disconnect.

 

[cyclops222]

Be SURE !!! You know what position the gear shift lever is to be in !!!!! Before removing the lower unit. Some motors have a small cover on the side of the lower unit that needs to be removed FIRST . Look inside for a bolt or nut holding the shifting linkage together.
Also look how the pump hose will bee loosened enough to slide off.
It is a real frustrating job on some motors.
If you can not reassemble it easily & correctly ? Get a marina shop to do it right. Good luck.

 

[Raycaster]

Thank you guys for the input, I will research more for sure. The shift shaft splined would be optimal and simplify things.

 

[racerone]

Just take bolts / nuts off and see if lower unit drops.----Look for possible hidden nut under the trim tab.

 

[Raycaster]

Racerone said "Just take bolts / nuts off and see if lower unit drops.", so I did. Yes I was aware of the hidden bolt. Thx for the heads up though.

Couple light taps with rubber mallet and slid off easy..

 

[Raycaster]

So I see a possible culprit for leaking right away, not sure. Lots of clear rubber-like caulking in front of impeller housing. Maybe suppose to be there but its looks excessive and non-uniform.

 

[Chris1956]

That is a strange place for silicone. Most waterpumps have a stainless steel wearplate with a gasket on each side. These seal the waterpump cover to the waterpump base. Silicone is never required.

You should check the parts list on a site like crowleymarine. Most exhaust castings have a seal between them and the gearcase. Perhaps yours is missing and the PO put that silicone there to seal the waterpump from the exhaust.