Prop free play

[Larryfirst1]

I am new to boats and outboards. I happened across a 1963 Starcraft with a 1968 55 HP Triumph outboard. I haven't had it running yet but someone said the lower end may have a problem because it doesn't turn freely. It will turn almost a 1/4 turn with no resistance and then it is hard to turn. Doesn't matter with way you turn the prop. My question is does this mean I'm looking at a potential problem or is this normal for this outboard?

 

[Larryfirst1]

Also note: The motor looks barely used and I know this may be a bad thing. I drained the gear oil from the lower unit and a small amount of clear water came out and a small amount of oil, about a 2 or 3 oz.

 

[jimmbo]

Welcome to iboats

First things first. Your outboard has what is called a Hydro-electric shift gear case. When it is not running it will shift into forward, That is why you can only rotate the prop a 1/4 turn or so. As for the oil, refill the case with a "type C" gear oil. BRP sells it renamed as 'premium Blend', that is important, as the gear case will not shift properly if you use something else. Use new gaskets on the drain/fill and vent/level screws. After using It for an hour or so, remove the drain screw and let a bit drain, if it looks like mocha get the unit pressure and vacuum tested.

One thing you should is replace the impeller in the water pump. These things get old and brittle and break pieces off.

 

[Larryfirst1]

Thanks for the info, and I'm very happy to have found this site. Since I haven't had the motor running yet should I replace the water pump impeller before I try to start the engine. Because I have no idea when it was last started. I was very concerned about how much gear oil came out when I drained it. Should the gear case be filled with oil before pressure testing and vacuum testing is done?

 

[Larryfirst1]

When I said I was concerned about how much gear oil that came out I meant how small of an amount. Is there a tool I should purchase that I can test the lower unit pressure and also the vacuum test. And if it is holding pressure how much pressure should I be putting on the lower unit. I thought I should do this test before I remove the lower unit to replace the water pump impeller just I case I have to reseal the lower unit. Any recommendations on the tool for testing PSI and vacuum are appreciated.

 

[merc_man]

Drain the oil before pres/ vac testing.
I had a little water in my oil last season. Pres/ vac tested and held both. Changedbplug seal and all seams good so far this season.

 

[merc_man]

Oh and i use the might vac tester. Little pricy to buy unless you got other use for it.

 

[Larryfirst1]

Thanks Merc_man, I ordered a Mity vac pump that does vacuum and positive pressure. I plan on testing lower unit this weekend. I picked up some new nylon seals for the drain plugs also.