Lower Unit Seals?? How hard to change

[Firehawk]

I have an old 1963 Johnson 18 HP that is mixing a bit of water with the lower unit gear oil. I have decided I better change the seals to stop any possible damage. Unfortunately , I have began to learn alot about basic outboard repair since purchasing this motor a couple of months ago. <br /><br />Anyways, I have a generic service manual that covers a lot of different Johnson outboards, but it isn't very specific on this procedure .<br /><br />What special tools will I need? How do I tell if the seal is bad or not? Should I just replace all of the seals? Should I replace the impeller while I am at it, or is it not in the same area as the needed seal replacement? <br /><br />I haven't found a specific kit for this job. My local dealer said I will have to buy each seal individually. <br /><br />What should I expect to pay for each seal/total price, impeller etc?<br /><br />Thanks again!<br /><br />FH<br /><br />By the way, fishing was great saturday and the new fuel pump you all helped me with ran perfectly. We boated around 30 trout in about 3 hours of trolling. My daughters first trip in the boat and she had a great time. My boys went out a couple of weeks ago and they also had a great time. I bought this boat for exactly the purpose of creating some lasting memories with my kids. Seems to be working .

 

[DJ]

Re: Lower Unit Seals?? How hard to change

How do I prove to them that it uses too much oil?

You won't without a pressure/vascuum test. <br /><br />

Should I just replace all of the seals?

Yes. <br /><br />

Should I replace the impeller while I am at it, or is it not in the same area as the needed seal replacement? <br />

Might as well, while the lower unit is off.<br /><br />

My local dealer said I will have to buy each seal individually. <br />

True.<br /><br />

What should I expect to pay for each seal/total price, impeller etc?<br />

Far less than $100.00 for everything.<br /><br />Before you condemn any seals, replace the fill/drain plug seals and then refill it and run it for a while. Those seals fail more than any others.

 

[Firehawk]

Re: Lower Unit Seals?? How hard to change

Tnanks DJ,<br /><br />I did replace the seals for the drain and fill plug about three trips ago. This was done after a trip prior revealed ALOT of water after letting it sit for a few days. This was the third trip since the plug gaskets were replaced. <br /><br />I checked the oil and it is starting to look creamy again so I assume I am getting water through the driveshaft or gear seals.<br /><br />Do you have any good instructions for me? Things that I must know about or watch out for?<br /><br />By the way, I think the first quote you replied to was for a different post. Just an FYI in case the other poster is eagerly waiting for your advice.<br /><br />Firehawk