1976 40 hp Johnson part question

[109jb]

I went and looked at a 1976 Johnson 40 hp outboard last night. I haven't bought it yet, but I may depending on what I hear from you guys. This motor looks great except that the lower gearcase cover has taken a hit at some time in the past to the cover on the bottom of the leg. It has a weld repair, but it wasn't done the greatest and appears that it may be leaking lower unit oil. The piece may be able to be salvaged, but I don't want to buy this motor and then find out it can't be fixed. I haven't been able to find any place online where I could get the part if needed. Anyone know where I might be able to find out what it would cost for this part?? Also, since this part also retains the bearings is it machined to mate specifically with only a certain leg?? The part in question is circled in this picture:

 

[jay_merrill]

Re: 1976 40 hp Johnson part question

I see these geaboxes on the auction sites from time to time, and they are usually found in boat repair junk heaps with a fair degree of frequency. If you consider the boat, I would do so bearing in mid that it might take some time to find what you need. The motor might end up being one that you can't use immediately, but you should be able to fix the problem without spending a ton of money.