72 MERC - CLUTCH?

T

tnankerv

Recruit
Joined
Dec 14, 2002
Messages
5
I have what I think is a '72 , 70HP, 3 cylinder Mercury. Last outing it slipped out of gear at full throttle in a slight chop. I was able to nurse it home after jiggling the throttle a bit. I am told that it is probably the clutch and that parts will cost around $750 (!!!!!!!) I am also told that I can get a 2nd hand leg for around $550 and that the leg is the same from 1971 to 1995. The task of putting on a new leg is probably a much cheaper proposition than having the clutch replaced and I figure if I can get one that is only 8-10 years old, then that might be the better option. Does anyone have any suggestions on this?<br /><br />Thanks, Tony
 
Yepblaze

Yepblaze

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Jun 1, 2001
Messages
1,686
Re: 72 MERC - CLUTCH?

Could have been somthing as simple as the propeller's hub going out which can be fixed for under $100. <br /><br />Sounds to me like you need a proffesional diagnosis and quote on repair.<br /><br />Not sure what you refer to as the clutch, and although the lower unit from other models might bolt up top your motor doesn't make it a universal swap. Many times the gear ratio in the lower unit may be different and that leads to more issues than you allready have at hand.<br /><br />My advice is find a good trustworthy mechanic/shop and get a proffesional repair quote. At least that way you'll be sure what's broke. If it was infact a proffesional quote that led to the clutch diagnosis. And the lower unit change out, they should quote for repairs unless they deem the housing unrepairable. If that's the case, make sure they match the new to the old correctly.
 
T

tnankerv

Recruit
Joined
Dec 14, 2002
Messages
5
Re: 72 MERC - CLUTCH?

Thanks Yepblaze<br /><br />I'll take it in. The figures come from the professional via a friend who does some welding for him. I was hoping that it would just be some tensioning on the cable that holds the selector - but the guy said that the way it popped out indicated "clutch". I guess I was looking for the quick (read cheap) fix.
 
M

mnmfors

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Nov 18, 2001
Messages
176
Re: 72 MERC - CLUTCH?

I would try borrowing a prop that you know is good, this way you will find out if it is the prop, without paying for shop time, or waiting for the diagnossis. If it does the same thing, then I would take it in. Just a thought :)
 
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