replacing lower unit

[medic2051]

My lower unit is off for seal replacement(50esl75)and i'm not looking forward to putting lower unit back on. Last time was a bear. Looking for any tips, in particular, for replacing the shift rod screw. It seems like the screw is so close to the shift lever that a normal socket (7/16?) will not fit. Is there a special tool, marine or otherwise, that will fit that tight spot?<br />Thanks.

 

[Walker]

Re: replacing lower unit

Some of them are real tough to get back in. I use a 1/4" drive socket set with 2 6" extensions and a universal behind the socket. Wrap the universal with electrical tape so that it is fairly stiff but will still swivel once you get the screw started.

 

[medic2051]

Re: replacing lower unit

My socket won't fit over the head of the screw, due to the extreme closeness to the shift rod. Is there a "thin walled " socket or special tool for the job?

 

[rwcreigh1]

Re: replacing lower unit

yes you can get thin walled sockets but they are not as strong so buy a good one.sears craftman will replace it free if it breaks.good luck