NS70 A prop seal

93gambler

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Jul 25, 2007
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26
Gettin' ready to change the prop seal on a 1986 NS70A. Any tips on removing the thrust washer and getting the old seal out would be appreciated. Will a regular gear puller work to remove the thrust washer?

Thanks.
 

TOHATSU GURU

Admiral
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Jul 22, 2004
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6,164
Re: NS70 A prop seal

It comes out just like all outboards that have a prop shaft housing.
 

93gambler

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Joined
Jul 25, 2007
Messages
26
Re: NS70 A prop seal

Thanks for your reply Guru. That would be great to know if I had changed out prop seals on alot of other outboards. I have the shop manual for my motor but it's rather vague on this procedure. I was trying to tap a little deeper into your wealth of knowledge. Could you elaborate just a little? Thanks.
 

TOHATSU GURU

Admiral
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Messages
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Re: NS70 A prop seal

The approved method for the PSH removal is to use a slip jaw puller....The Bubba method (almost always done) is to gently tap the housing sideways and then gently tap it away from the LUH. Gentle is a relative term so be careful. The seal is removed with either a dedicated seal puller or the Bubba method (almost always done) using a screw driver and a hammer. Again, be careful.
 

93gambler

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Joined
Jul 25, 2007
Messages
26
Re: NS70 A prop seal

Guru,

My apologies. This unit has the snap ring. Suggestions before I proceed?

Thanks.
 

TOHATSU GURU

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Jul 22, 2004
Messages
6,164
Re: NS70 A prop seal

Honestly....Walk away from it. It might come out, with a effort, if it is a fresh water engine, but if it has ever been in saltwater I would take it to a dealer. Actually I wouldn't even take it to a dealer due to its age. The last time that one was produced was 85 and even as early as 95 we were recommending lower unit replacement rather then repairing due to that PSH design. It might come out with heat and a puller, but I wouldn't bet on it.
 

93gambler

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Jul 25, 2007
Messages
26
Re: NS70 A prop seal

Guru,

My doubting friend I now have the prop shaft housing out and laying on my workbench. This motor came from Arkansas, no saltwater around. I can see the seal behind the thrust washer. Do I have to pull the entire shaft out of the housing to replace the seal. It would sure be easier to take off the thrust washer and slide the new seal on. Doesn't the thrust washer come off? Maybe with a puller. Thanks again.
 

TOHATSU GURU

Admiral
Joined
Jul 22, 2004
Messages
6,164
Re: NS70 A prop seal

You are a lucky man, but you still need to pull the carrier apart. That shouldn't be that difficult though. You can use a press or Bubba's method of increasing wedge's between the outer sealing piece and the carrier. Be careful though as these parts are no longer available...If you break it, the engine is worthless.
 

93gambler

Cadet
Joined
Jul 25, 2007
Messages
26
Re: NS70 A prop seal

Guru,

Hello. I have just finished testing my 1986 NS70A, after re-assembly. She shifts in and out of gear smoothly and with no obscene noises or grinding. The lower unit oil contains no water, so I believe my prop seal installation has been successful. Never under estimate this brand at any age. Exercise patience and use PB Blaster for loosening stuck threads and other parts. A shop manual is absolutely necessary. A wise old advisor is also helpful.......sometimes. :)

Thanks.
 
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