1996 Force 120 impeller replacement

[rlksck]

I have a Force 120 that is overheating - buzzer going off at lower speeds - but water still coming out of upper part of motor. I had the lower unit replace last fall. I believe the problem to be the impeller and have ordered the replacement kit hoping I might be able to handle this project. Bigger problem is I'm a total novice at this and don't want to start something that I will cause more damage. I have the Force Service Manual and have been reading up. Any advice or help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[TrophyFish'n]

Re: 1996 Force 120 impeller replacement

I have a 120's as well. Have only had the buzzer go off if I'm running one engine harder than the other for some time. Might be a bad head gasket or a clogged passage in the head or jacket. Can you confirm that the outlet water is really hot? When my engine was buzzing it was making some steam I believe. Hard to say but that's what it appeared to be doing.<br /><br />You mentioned you replaced you lower unit? What was the reason you did that? I may need one as well so I'm curious where did you get yours and what was the cost approx. would you recommend it and have you had any problems with the lower unit since? Rgds TrophyFish'n

 

[bcbaylinerboy]

Re: 1996 Force 120 impeller replacement

have you ruled out the thermostat as being faulty?......I have a '94 force 120 and have just taken it apart to change the impeller..it was actually quite easy...just followed the instructions in the "seloc" manual....drained the lower unit oil...disconected shift rod....removed 6 regular bolts...and 1 allen key bolt...and it came apart...the impeller housing was right there...

 

[rlksck]

Re: 1996 Force 120 impeller replacement

Thanks for the advise and help. Is this a one man or two man job? Can do this without taking the prop off or do I have to dismantle everything? <br /><br />Trophy - I replace the LU with a rebuilt one in fall of '04. LU and parts cost $1850 - I had a mechanic do the work.<br /><br />BC - I had thought of the thermostat but I don't think the impeller has ever been replaced and after reading some of the other posts - I assume that mine is in very bad shape. Question - I can seem to find where the thermostat is located - again I'm a novice at this. Is it difficult to get to and replace?<br /><br />Again - thanks for the help!

 

[bnk999]

Re: 1996 Force 120 impeller replacement

You probably want someone to help you hold that lower unit when you take it off, It's somewhat heavy, and awkward to hold. You do not need to remove the prop-

 

[rlksck]

Re: 1996 Force 120 impeller replacement

Thanks qab999 - I take it remove the bolts and the LU can be lowered. Water pump would be near the top?

 

[bnk999]

Re: 1996 Force 120 impeller replacement

Click on link, then click on "GEAR HOUSING ASSY (DRIVESHAFT) (3 JAW REVERSE CLUTCH) (SEE" <br />to see a blowup of what to expect once you take l/u off Parts blowup

 

[Realgun]

Re: 1996 Force 120 impeller replacement

Basically its real easy.<br /><br />1. Remove prop.<br />2. Remove shift linkage, usually a cotter pin and a round sleive about 1 inch long.<br />3. remove all bolts you can see. should be 6.<br />4. Find and remove the hidden bolt in the ehaust snout, upsidedown fin behind the top of prop arc.(you dont have this oops)<br />5.Pull down, straight down, as the drive shaft is fairly long. <br />6. The housing for the water impeller is at the base of the drive shaft. 4 small bolts should get it out.<br />7. When you replace the unit be sure the water hose inside the engine and the top of the water pump line up.<br />8. You may need somebody to move the flywheel back and forth to get the housing into the motor.<br />Enjoy.<br /><br />Best bet is to get the book!!!