Newby Needs Help (of course)

[JustJoe13]

Hey all,
I just accuired a '72 Johnson 25hp. It fires right up and sounds great. Under the cover is in excellent shape. But on the lower unit, I just recently noticed a "crack" in the lower unit about 1.5" to 2". Is this crack a serious problem like cracks usually are? If so, whats the cheapest easiest way to "fix" it. And yes, replacing the lower unit is NOT an option. I know she looks ruff, but she runs, and thats enuff for me. Any ideas or any experience in this area will be greatly appreciated.

 

[ezeke]

Re: Newby Needs Help (of course)

That was caused by water freezing in a drainage area behind the crack. The drainage hole that is at the lower end of the drain was probably blocked.

You will want to service the waterpump, so you should try to get those areas cleaned up.

Best thing would be to have a welder fix that while you have it off for the waterpump service. If you clean it up, probably around $50. Otherwise, fill the drain with epoxy after cleaning it very well.

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Newby Needs Help (of course)

That lower unit has seen it's better days. You said replacing the lower unit is not an option. Guess what? It better be. Wasting money on this one is -- well -- a waste of money. Did you at least pull the drain plug to see if there was any oil in it (and perhaps water). I'm betting you cannot even get the drain and fill plugs out.

 

[JustJoe13]

Re: Newby Needs Help (of course)

Well the lower unit is $600 and I dont think the boat, motor and trailer is worth that. Plus, we are in a recession so I cant take that liberty. But thanks for the reply Silvertip. I havent tried to do anything to it really because I wanted as much info as possible before I started tearing it apart.


Thanks for the reply Ezeke, I think Ill try your approach, even if I only get a few seasons out of it, then Ive gotten my moneys worth. When you say service the water pump, Im guessing I just need to detatch the lower unit and its all self explanitory from there? There are 2 marine repair shops locally, but 1 I heard was super high on costs, and the other doesnt want to answer there phones. Ill keep updates as they come.

Thanks again!

 

[lindy46]

Re: Newby Needs Help (of course)

Check ebay for a lower unit or go to AOMCI.org and place a free want-ad on Webvertize. You can probably find one for around $100.

 

[14ftgrumman]

Re: Newby Needs Help (of course)

LU's on fleabay usually run about $100.00, as above.

Before spending any bux on it, pull drain plugs. ( DO NOT take out the shift pivot pin. It's a pita to replace.) The top vent the bottom drain plug will look like the top vent plug.

See what comes out, milky grease or black.

Did you take the motor out on the lake or river for a spin before you bought? It's at the age where the clutch dog is gettng worn. If it jumps out of gear, or feels like you hit a log, the clutch dog is bad and that's a $200.00 or so fix.

Definately change out the water pump impeller, and take it from there.

I have 2 of these,a 20 and a 25. Very easy to work on, and almost bullet proof. Allways looking for parts engines.

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: Newby Needs Help (of course)

Nasty crack with not much "good" material to weld to by the looks of it. If the guts are good then try to get a cheap blown one with a good casing and rebuild with the best bits.
Just my 2 cents though.