96 Johnson 40hp lower unit rattle

[RickyDee61]

I'm getting a rattle in the lower unit when the engine is cold, whether it's in gear or not. Other than the noise it runs just fine. Anyone have an idea what it might be? Thanks.

 

[jakedaawg]

Bearing? Drain the gearcase...what did you find? Just oil, oil and metal, water, burnt oil?

 

[racerone]

Those lower units are not robust !!----Drain the oil.------Likely broken teeth on pinion and forward gear.----Very common.

 

[RickyDee61]

Would the noise not be steady if something was broken? It disappears after the engine warms and runs perfectly.