Johnson 150 GT 1988 Prop Removal

[calthegoose]

I have recently bought a Johnson 150GT 1988 model. I have tried to remove the prop and it won't come loose. Now I retired a few years ago as a mechanic so the stupid factor is less likely, although still a possibility. Obviously I removed the castle nut. Everyone tells me theirs usually just pulls right off. I tapped mine with a woodedn hammer but I am afraid to bang on it as it may damage the lower unit or shaft. Have you experieinced this issue and how did you solve it short of breaking something else.

Thanks up front for you helpful replies.

 

[emdsapmgr]

Re: Johnson 150 GT 1988 Prop Removal

It is always recommended that you put a little waterproof grease on the propshaft splines, to avoid just this situation. Perhaps it was never done. Also, perhaps the prop has never been off the shaft. Certainly not the norm in my case....considering my underwater luck with props. Likely you can find a prop puller, or adapt a 3-legged automotive puller to help you. The end of the propshaft should have a dimple in it, which can be used for the tip of the center shaft of the puller. Extend the 3 puller arms down inside the prop and grab it from the inside. I am like you, reluctant to hit a prop, or wedge a screwdriver between the prop and the gearcase housing. Most of the prop pullers advertised (in Overton's) are for pulling inboard props, but you may find something on the web through Google.

 

[calthegoose]

Re: Johnson 150 GT 1988 Prop Removal

Thanks for your reply. I will look into a puller. I just have this fear of pounding something off with a hammer when I don't know what may be holding it on the inside. I hoped there was no hidden pins, etc. Again, thanks for your help.

 

[James R]

Re: Johnson 150 GT 1988 Prop Removal

Never anything as hard as a wooden hammer. Use a soft faced mallet if you must hit it.
Has this motor been in salt water? If it has then you may be in for a time. The outside of the prop hub will have to be torched to melt the rubber hub to get the prop clear of the metal inner hub which will have to be carefully removed using a cutter blade in a die grinder.

 

[nymack66]

Re: Johnson 150 GT 1988 Prop Removal

It depends on how hard its frozen on, you may have to apply heat as the LAST resort.
Use a heavy duty puller from as shown here, good luck ... http://propull.com/propull_removal_tools_detail.htm

 

[wilde1j]

Re: Johnson 150 GT 1988 Prop Removal

If it resists reasonable attempts to remove, take the rig to a dealer who has a puller, rather than spend $200 plus for a specialized puller you'll likely never ever use again. Even if they charge you 50 to $75 you''' be way ahead. When you get it off, grease the prop shaft liberally with BRP Triple Guard waterproof grease and you won't have the problem again.

 

[calthegoose]

Re: Johnson 150 GT 1988 Prop Removal

Thanks again for all your replies. I think bringing it to a dealer is my best option for now.

You folks are great, glad I joined.