1998 120 Force lower unit repair

[Dave 2002]

I have what I beleive to be a 1998 120 Force there are no serial numbers on it but the boat is a 1998. I have the lower unit off and I got both of the studs off but I can not get the carrier to move. I have tapped on the ears and nothing moves, I have a chain puller that wont pudge it. There is metal shavings in the oil so I know that I need to get into it to see what needs to be replaced. Any body have any ideas?

 

[pnwboat]

Re: 1998 120 Force lower unit repair

Never done a late model Force lower like yours, but my manual shows that you need a special puller. P/N 91-46086A1. See attachment below.

http://www.mercruisermotor.com/files/005_91_46086A1.jpg

As you can see the puller grabs the inner circumference of the bearing carrier. You can place the propeller thrust washer on the propeller shaft to sort of force the ends of the puller outward to get a more stable grip on the inner circumference of the carrier to pull it out.

I've done many older lower units and the tolerances are very tight. The bearing carrier has to be pulled out perfectly straight or it will not budge. Prying on one side will not work and you risk damaging the carrier especially if you pry on the ears. You may be able to use an automotive type puller.