1985 Force 85hp - lower unit trouble

[meganby]

Out at weekend and noticed grinding noise while running. Took her home and on the way home she stopped running. Engine was running but no movement on gears and prop. Quick look my mechanic - he turned the prop and there was a grinding noise from her. He said that we needed a new lower unit, that the gears were gone (as in disintegrated I think he meant). Anyone heard of this before?

Also, how to repair/replace this problem? New engine out of question financially.

Many thanks.

Margaret

 

[Guest]

Re: 1985 Force 85hp - lower unit trouble

Disintegrated is not accurate.Most likely lack of lube caused bearing failure along with gear damage.either directly from lube problem or bearing failure.
Fairly normal problem usually from poor maintenance.
A pretty serious repair.Don't have a clue about cost from a shop but I would think a minimum of $300 to $400 if it is a simple repair.And I'm betting more.Do it your self obviously less.I'm sure someone will be along with better info and maybe parts sources.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: 1985 Force 85hp - lower unit trouble

It's terminal! A seal may have blown, allowing oil to be forced out by water pressure and the gears then eventually failed. Or, a tooth or two may have broken and rattled around in there, grinding everything up. I think if you open it you will find that the forward gear and pinion are missing teeth and have others ground down. The forward bearing will probably be scored also. Since it doesn't get much pressure, the reverse gear MAY be salvageable. With the gear pack alone costing over 700 new, and about 50-75 for seals, you would best look for a good used lower unit. It will be cheaper and easier.

 

[_brad_]

Re: 1985 Force 85hp - lower unit trouble

Toasted!

Try Ebay and criaglist. Should be able to find a replacement.

 

[Bigprairie1]

Re: 1985 Force 85hp - lower unit trouble

Definitely check out Ebay. I think I saw 2 or 3 three over the last day or so.
Search under 'boat parts' and 'force' and you'll find them.
Good Luck.

 

[bowhuntrrl]

Re: 1985 Force 85hp - lower unit trouble

I have a complete 1989 85 hp Force for sale for cheap money. I'm located in the Northeast . I'm not sure about the interchangeability, but the unit I have has very little running time on it. Finding a good used unit will probably be your best bet.


Note: It may not be a 1989. I saw a picture of one today on another forum and he claims it is a 1986.