How bad is this

[SweeperForce]

I was about to start re-installing my T/T unit when I saw this crack.

Any thoughts?
Tom

 

[gm280]

Re: How bad is this

I was about to start re-installing my T/T unit when I saw this crack.
View attachment 186197View attachment 186198
Any thoughts?
Tom[/QUOTE

Are you referring to what looks like a crack in the motor holding bracket? If so, are you sure it is a crack and not a line from the casting? If it is a crack in that right-hand motor hold bracket and you really like the engine, I'm sure you can buy that one side and replace it. I have a 1976 40 HP old Johnson and those parts are still available...not cheap, but available...

 

[SweeperForce]

Re: How bad is this

Yes, that's what I'm talking about. I looked at some old pictures I took two years ago, and the crack was there then too. I have a spare bracket from a old leg. My biggest problem is removing the motor to replace the bracket. I considered taking it to a marine repair shop and let them do it. But I doubt it would cost under $500.

Tom

 

[SweeperForce]

Re: How bad is this

Another thought is, could I have some lay on a thick bead of weld over top of the crack?

Tom

 

[gm280]

Re: How bad is this

The answer to that question is...”maybe”. Cast aluminum is extremely hard to weld. I had a lower foot cavitation plate welded back on but it was not exactly prefect. The guy doing the welding stated that cast aluminum was the hardest of most anything to weld and get a quality fix. And to weld the crack at that position without removing it from the transom would be even riskier because you seriously could set the boat on fire... Clean flat and/or new sheet aluminum is quite easy to weld using a TIG setup, but cast is not as forgiving... Do you know of any professional aluminum welders in your area you could take it to for their input...?

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: How bad is this

That is bad--very, very bad! Replace it rather than weld. Do not bother to weld it. Those clamps are forged aluminum. And meant to be one piece. Do not do a half-fast job and regret it later when the clamp fails.

Personally, I HATE those design clamps. They are a very poor design engineering wise and were a compromise between the old Chrysler screw on and newer Merc. bolt-on. They tend to corrode around the bolt and split.

I think I have one sitting in my garage. You are in York. Send me a PM and I will give you my email then I can send you a photo and if you want it I can mail it to you. OR---If you want to drive out here, about an hour, I will jack up the engine and replace it for you.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: How bad is this

In fact, that clamp is so critical that I went down to the garage and found my extra one. Believe it or not, I have a 150 that I will be replacing those clamps on simply because I hate their design

.

Didn't see where you said you have a spare clamp. At any rate, with the tilt/trim removed that is not a big job. I could snatch the engine up and replace it in probably an hour to an hour and a half.

Even though you say the crack has been there for a while, do not take chances. Replace it now.

You can do it yourself if you have some provision for supporting the engine.

 

[Highlander70]

Re: How bad is this

if that is indeed a crack and not from the original casting i wouldnt mess with it.
you can find them on ebay for about 125 bucks, i think i remember seeing one just the other day so if you cant find one check ebay

 

[jerryjerry05]

Re: How bad is this

Your boat ever been in salt water? If so I'd take Franks offer. It can be a real mother to take apart.
Get a can of PB Blaster and start spraying it NOW.Keep spraying for at least 2 weeks.Even if it's not been in the salt.
It might help???) Loosen the corrosion.

 

[SweeperForce]

Re: How bad is this

No, never seen salt water. Only run in fresh water lakes and rivers.
Thanks for the advise about PB. I've used it in the past and it saved my neck on a number of occasions.

Tom