O Ring Question

[Rick K]

Hi all,<br />I can't post a pic of my actual parts illustrationt to the forum, but you can see what I'm talking about here: <br /><br /> http://ishopmarine.com/ishop/jsp/As...~A0000022~M0011904~M0011953~M0011954~C0310557 <br /><br />Although the above is for a 1968 motor, the illustraion is almost identical to my motors.<br /><br />Motors are '59 18hp & and '57 35hp. The illustrations show an O Ring right above the waterpump cover. I'm not talking about the grommet that goes into the cover for the water tube. <br /><br />I was advised that this O Ring goes on top of the shaft, right underneath where it plugs into the motor. Although I can slide that O Ring anywhere on the shaft, how can I insure that it stays where it needs to be upon re-assembly? If it's way up there, what purpose does it serve? <br /><br />Since neither motor had much left of the impeller and other rubber parts, I have nothing to reference...<br /><br />Manuals are not too awful clear on this.. <br /><br />Thanks as always for help/opionions/advice.<br /><br />Rick

 

[Paul Moir]

Re: O Ring Question

There ought to be a groove in the splines at the end of the driveshaft that the o-ring fits into. Normally I get a fresh one from the hardware store as fit isn't critical.<br /><br />The point of the o-ring is to try to keep grease in where the splines mate, and water & dirt out. If the o-ring or grease is left out, and the engine neglected and the impeller not serviced for some time, the top of the driveshaft will rust & freeze with the crankshaft making removal of the lower unit very difficult.<br /><br />I hope that clears it up!

 

[CATransplant]

Re: O Ring Question

Yup, that o-ring goes at the top of the shaft, just under the splines. A new one is required when you pull the lower unit, before reassembling. It has to be off the shaft to slide the waterpump housing down over the drive shaft. Then you put the o-ring in the groove just under the splines just before re-assembling the lower unit to the rest of the outboard.<br /><br />Be sure to put a light coating of grease on the splines, as well.<br /><br />[Edit: I see Paul M. has beaten me again by seconds. At least we said the same thing....]

 

[Rick K]

Re: O Ring Question

Thanks Paul and CA... I picked up a ring from the shop yesterday for the '57, but won't bother for the '59 if fit is not critical. I'll just go into the box of rings that the wife says "I HAD to have" ha ha.<br /><br />Thanks again<br />Rick