Stuck lower unit...Johnson model BJ 40 ELCEC

[themannsindorset]

I have a elderley Johnson 40hp model BJ 40 ELCEC outboard. I think its a 1989 model but I may be wrong. I need to service the pump and can not get the lower unit off. I have removed the four short bolts and the one long one. I can not see where or how I am to disconnect the shift linkage. A PDF file I have says remove the water inlet screens and disconnect there but there is nothing behind the screens to undo. The lower unit dropped a few mils but now just hangs there. Can anyone help please?
Thanks
Peter

 

[ONERCBOATER]

Re: Stuck lower unit...Johnson model BJ 40 ELCEC

not familiar with your particular model, but when you have unbolted the lower unit, it will move down a small amount, i have found that by changing gear (F/N/R) that you can get a small amount more movement, then there is a rod, the shift rod, it should be coupled with a metal block with two screws/bolts holding it together. I havent looked your model up but if it is the long shaft version, i believe you would have to separate the exhaust housing from the spacer 1st to get to the shift rod rather than the lower unit from the spacer. Others on here will post far better directions a picture here is worth a thousand words.

sean

 

[Rick.]

Re: Stuck lower unit...Johnson model BJ 40 ELCEC

If it is the same as my 1995 40 Johnson the shift linkage to undo is right under the bottom carb. It is a bugger to get to and makes it a two man job. I had to remove the bottom carb. and the starter to get to the bolts. Best of luck. Rick.

 

[themannsindorset]

Re: Stuck lower unit...Johnson model BJ 40 ELCEC

Many thanks Sean and Rick
I will get back to you if needed.
Peter
ps.. the motor is a short shaft version

 

[Haffiman]

Re: Stuck lower unit...Johnson model BJ 40 ELCEC

Easiest is just to remove the lower cover to get access to the linkage connection.

 

[Rick.]

Re: Stuck lower unit...Johnson model BJ 40 ELCEC

Easiest is just to remove the lower cover to get access to the linkage connection.

I'll remember that for next time cause I did find it a royal PITA getting at the linkage. Thanks, Rick.