Alpha One. Can't replace lower unit.

[ajochum]

Hope I can post into this thread, as my question is related. I have a 1986 Mercruiser Alpha One and I removed the lower unit to replace the impeller. Now I cannot get the lower unit back on. I have researched this and seem to have it down to the splined shifter shaft being out of gear. If you look down at mine, it is at the 10 o'clock/4 o'clock position. There are two slots on either side but it doesn't want to turn towards the 12-6 o'clock positions. I don't want to force it, and I don't seem to have any tool in my toolbox that would lend itself to turning it. First of all, am I on the right track? Next, how do I turn it? Thanks in advance.

 

[achris]

Hello Ajochum.

I have separated your post and created a new topic for you. Please don't hijack someone else topic, it creates confusion as to which question someone else is trying to answer and can be viewed as disrespectful to the original poster.

Apart from that, you are working on an Alpha One, the previous poster has an Alpha One Gen II, he'd removed the entire drive, you've only dropped the lower unit (called the Gear Housing BTW), he was just looking for advise on what to look for, you are having trouble reinstalling the gear housing....

As for advise on your problem, try one of my instructional videos up in the 'sticky' section.

Thank you.

Chris.
iboats Mod Team.

 

[Bt Doctur]

Sent you a private message. The splined shaft is what turns,not the bushing with the 2 slots. Before you do some serious damage wait and see if a link to the correct manual gets posted or sent in a private message.
With the control box in full forward, and the splined shaft turned full clockwise and having the prop locked you raise the unit up.
Unit will locate to within a 1/4 inch if done properly. To line up driveshaft, turn prop CCW about an inch to line up the splines.Start the forward nut to hold unit in place.
Locate brass shift shoe on to the lower splined shaft so it points in a straight line ,it may not connect to the upper half at this time.
Start the 2 side nuts and carefully snug up making sure the brass shoes turn freely .At no time should they get tight. If they do your doing something wrong

 

[ajochum]

Thanks for the help. Problem solved.