Seal won't cooperate, so I destroyed it. Any pointers how to install a new one?

Gas Giant

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Aug 8, 2010
Messages
239
In my continuing saga to get my boat seaworthy, I am putting a seal kit in my spare lower unit. I had to tear the spare one down because I pulled out the pivot pin accidentally, so I figured I would put a seal kit in while I had it apart.

This is the first time I have done this, by the way.

Well, after overcoming a stuck nut, I manage to get everything disassembled today. I decided to put in the upper driveshaft seal first, for the silly reason that my workspace for that was closer to the garage door and I actually got a breeze there.

For reference, the upper driveshaft seal is #46 on this diagram:
http://www.boats.net/parts/search/Merc/Force/1988/H0507F88C/GEAR HOUSING/parts.html

But, that little bugger would NOT go in. I did get all the old seal out (it didn't look that bad...kind of mad that I took it out). I've replaced timing cover seals and transmission seals on cars, and this seal is similar, but tapping on it gently with a hammer wouldn't make it go in

I tried using a large socket with the small hammer to try and tap it in, then a large socket with a big hammer, and then a large socket, a big hammer and me releasing a bunch of pent-up-rage on the bugger. Basically, this deformed the seal into something unusable, and it hadn't even begun to fit in its little home.

So, I am going to call around tomorrow and see if I can find a replacement locally....but any advice on how to put it in without destroying it? I'd like to get this lower unit back together; the clutch dogs and gears have almost no wear on them at all. Thanks!
 

KHopkins218

Cadet
Joined
Jun 1, 2011
Messages
7
Re: Seal won't cooperate, so I destroyed it. Any pointers how to install a new one?

Everytime I've had seal trouble, soaking it in WD-40 for about 10 minutes made it more pliable and let it just seat itself and stay. So that + a socket to push it in may do the trick.
 

Frank Acampora

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Jan 19, 2007
Messages
12,004
Re: Seal won't cooperate, so I destroyed it. Any pointers how to install a new one?

Since you seem to have a lot of trouble, it might be wise to invest in a seal driver. These seals tend to **** very easily in the bore and then nothing will get them in. You must be extremely careful to align them perfectly when starting. Tap gently at first and if they stop moving, pull them out and try again.

Be absolutely certain you get an all stainless seal. Last time I bought one, I was burned: I specified all stainless and was told: "That is the only way they come. All seals are stainless now." B.S. A year later, the garter spring has rusted and the case is rusting too. last time I go to that bearing supply.
 

BuzzStPoint

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
May 27, 2009
Messages
1,003
Re: Seal won't cooperate, so I destroyed it. Any pointers how to install a new one?

Also check the seal bore for any edges that might make it hang up.
 

Gas Giant

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Aug 8, 2010
Messages
239
Re: Seal won't cooperate, so I destroyed it. Any pointers how to install a new one?

I actually forgot about this thread. I had a guy put it in for me. :D
 
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