1970(?) 4hp Johnson screw thru lower unit

[ugmold]

Hi folks,

Well I picked up a nice clean 4hp Johnson, looks around a 1970, but one of the 4 bolts that holds on the lower unit to the exhaust housing has been drilled thru the outside of the exhaust housing so it protrudes an inch or so with a nut on it.

I am typing this at work, so can't get a picture up til then. Does this pose a serious problem, or is it a non-issue?

Thanks much.

-Forrest

 

[lindy46]

Re: 1970(?) 4hp Johnson screw thru lower unit

Someone stripped out the bolt hole, so they drilled it larger and through the casing, inserted the bolt with a nut on the other end. Hopefully it isn't in a position where gearcase oil can leak out of the lower unit or water can get in. Check the gear oil for water intrusion. I'd slap a bunch of sealant on it and pressure test the lower unit to see if the integrity has been compromised.

 

[Chinewalker]

Re: 1970(?) 4hp Johnson screw thru lower unit

It sounds like one of the bolts stripped out and someone just ran a longer bolt through to hold it in place. I've seen them before - doesn't hurt the motor - just ugly....

 

[ugmold]

Re: 1970(?) 4hp Johnson screw thru lower unit

Thanks for the replies,

Stopped and got some lower unit oil at Wallmart, all they had was Merc Quicksilver 90 weight, said it was ok for all but electric OMC gearboxes.

And when I pilled into my driveway, thunderstorms and pouring rain....wahhhhhhhhh.

I was so anxious to try it out. Here are some pics, it is wet so looks kind of bad.

Haven't tried draining it yet.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/54773856@N00/6003539220/in/photostream
http://www.flickr.com/photos/54773856@N00/6003539664/in/photostream

BTW, I use to own a GW Invader, wish I still did.

 

[ugmold]

Re: 1970(?) 4hp Johnson screw thru lower unit

Had a break in the rain, I drained the gear oil and it was clean, the most minimal white I have ever seen.

I'm just wondering if water can get in to the shaft? I bought some water seal putty stuff, but haven't applied, trying to think of a better method.

-Ugmold

 

[wilde1j]

Re: 1970(?) 4hp Johnson screw thru lower unit

There's normally water inside of where the bolt is. In fact, water will be well above the bolt when the motor's running. No reason to try sealing anything, just an ugly fix.

 

[ugmold]

Re: 1970(?) 4hp Johnson screw thru lower unit

Good to know, ugly is ok.

Thanks all for the help!

Now have to see if it runs, hasn't been run in 3 years I was told