Removing driveshaft from lower unit, 72 Johnson 6HP

[jrs_diesel]

I think I have read here before that the driveshaft simply pulls up and out of the lower unit. I'm not sure if that is true or not.

I am rebuilding my 72 6HP, so I have the main parts (power head, mid section, lower unit) seperated from each other. This engine is a long shaft that I am converting to short shaft. I pulled the water pump off already.

What is the correct way to pull out the driveshaft?

 

[Vic.S]

Re: Removing driveshaft from lower unit, 72 Johnson 6HP

Normally the drive shaft remains in the gear case . It is retained and keyed into the pinion gear. You will need to open up the gear case and release it from there.

The top end can only be released from the crankshaft by turning it until the pin that supports parts that make up the crankshaft seal is aligned to pass through a slot at the top of the exhaust housing.

See diag HERE

 

[jrs_diesel]

Re: Removing driveshaft from lower unit, 72 Johnson 6HP

Thank you for posting that Vic.

I guess I might as well open up the lower unit. Both to get the shaft out and to also inspect the gears, seals and dogs.

Gettting the shaft out of the upper housing I alread knew about. That's where I found a broken spring and bad crankshaft seal.