1996 Johnson 50hp retaining screw for pinion gear.

[Nathan m]

I messed up and stupidly removed the Phillips screw that is right next to the intake on my 1996 Johnson 50hp outboard. (See attached photo)
I’m just wondering what my course of action is.. I tried to re install the screw and it was seated then I tightened slightly more then it spins. I haven’t tried to remove it yet. Haven’t started the motor since.

 

[racerone]

No that has nothing to do with the pinion gear.-----That is the pivot pin for the shifter fork.-------Likely the thread inside is stripped.------This will require major work.---Might as well take it apart and see if your local machine shop can help you.-----Or used housing.----There is also a screw ( near water intakes )that locates the pinon bearing.----But that is not shown in that picture.

 

[Nathan m]

Okay right on, yeah that screw by the intake I did take out but put back in successfully and it’s not stripped!

 

[racerone]

The screw by the intake prevents the pinion bearing from moving up due to oil pressure.-----You can take that screw out and back in all day long and nothing will happen there.