1997 J25RLEUM Lower Unit Removal

[w2much]

Shift rod connecting nut (#49) and the connector (#66) are made of brass or such. Mine are frozen together and will not seperate. I soaked to no avail . I heated them but did not want to apply too much so as not to affect the seals and the keepers (#73). So in the process to remove the nut has become mangled but good. I am thinking to just cut it off of the lower shift rod nut and connector by dremel or hacksaw, length wise so as to not harm the shift rod. Will new ones ( nut and connector and keepers) just screw on in their place through the intake or might it become more involved. Thought i would ask before opening a can of worms.

 

[flyingscott]

I used a sonic saw to cut them out. The nut and coupler can be installed through the water intake. They don't screw on the shafts they just slip on.

 

[w2much]

Have done quite a few lower units but none of this type .. I will learn as I go. I find it interesting that they just slip on. I will learn soon enough.Should I order both connector and nut and keepers. ? or will I just need the nut I will attempt to cut off. Thanks for your reply.

 

[flyingscott]

They work like a compression fitting. How you get it apart will determine the parts you need.

 

[w2much]

Generally how does it come apart? With two wrenches I assume I will wait to order til I get it apart.

 

[jakedaawg]

They are proud of the keepers. I call them "Jesus clips" as in "Jeeze, where did that fly to?" Order a.spare.

I just do not under stand how you will cut through the barrel nut without damaging the shaft. I suppose it could be done but if the flats are already gone and a wrench is not an option I would try heat and two vice grips first.

 

[racerone]

Grind / file till the nuts split / break / fall off.------You will find that the shafts are a bit spendy.----By using heat you may have damaged the plastic keeper already.

 

[w2much]

Thanks guys. I used a hacksaw blade cutting parallel to the shift shaft. Got them off and have ordered new.

 

[w2much]

Installed the new . Needed the 2 keepers nut and connector . Went together no problem. Thanks for the help