Pulling Powerhead off on 50hp Merc.?

[KCLOST]

1984 Mercury, I'm getting ready to remove the powerhead to be able to replace an exhaust cover gasket... What do I have to watch out for when I remove the head? Are there gear alignment issues, springs, gaskets etc. that I need to watch out for?<br />Thanks

 

[alcan]

Re: Pulling Powerhead off on 50hp Merc.?

Hello Klost<br />Just make sure you get all the bolts un-done. Might be nice to have a hoist or a buddy to help lift. The gasket between powerhead and exhaust housing will need to be replaced. Outside of that your home free. Once you have all the hoses and wires clear and the bolts loose. Take the palm of your hand and bump the flywheel from side to side, to break the gasket loose. Take your time, have fun while your working, if something dosen't seem to be working out don't be afraid to ask. Someone here will have an answer or idea.

 

[KCLOST]

Re: Pulling Powerhead off on 50hp Merc.?

Thanks alcan,<br />I got it loose and up last night.<br /><br />Those nuts are hard to get off due to the space restrictions. Couldn't get a socket on them, had to use small channel locks. Anyway I'll find something better when I tighten them back on.<br /><br />One thing I noticed was a gear shift linkage/bracket. This bracket I think came loose from the rod that goes down to the lower unit. Do I need to have it oriented propery to avoid any neutral to in-gear problems when I re-start the motor. I noticed that the prop now doesn't spin freely since I pulled the head. I think this linkage has moved or something causing it to be in gear....

 

[KCLOST]

Re: Pulling Powerhead off on 50hp Merc.?

Update.. This bracket/linkage that I'm worried about is firmly connected to the rod at the top, that goes down to the lower unit. However it is not engaging with the gear down low.... I can lift it up but can't push it down all the way....<br /><br />I wish I could post a pic of it to show you... Anyway, if I can't get it seated down all the way I'll never get the powerhead down completely and if I force it, I'm afraid I'll be worse off than I started..<br /><br />Do I need to open up the lower end to make sure this rod gets engaged well with the lower gear?<br /><br />Man, let me tell you I'm a bit frustrated on how difficult it is to simply replace an exhaust gasket... I have opened up a big old mess....

 

[KCLOST]

Re: Pulling Powerhead off on 50hp Merc.?

After doing some reading, I found that this rod is indeed the shift shaft. And the lingage is connected at the top. "Upper shift shaft" is the term used in the owners manual....

 

[tmcalavy]

Re: Pulling Powerhead off on 50hp Merc.?

KCLOST,<br />I salute your efforts. Haven't got that brave yet myself. Try this site/board for answers to Merc questions, its a good one:<br />www.pfs-ware.com then go to John's Old Merc site, then Q&A page. Lots of good stuff/advice/encouragement for us Merc guys.<br />Hang in there, you'll get it back together. Just be patient.

 

[KCLOST]

Re: Pulling Powerhead off on 50hp Merc.?

Thanks Tim,<br /><br />I'm ok so far, just want to take it slow and do it right.....I'll try that site also...