Starting Problem and question about gearcase seal replacement

[FBPirate95]

I've recently traded a project boat of mine for another "project" boat. This boat has a 1985 Johnson 90 on it. When I looked it over before the trade, the owner was able to start it with the key with no problems. I've since gotten it home and started making my preps to get it out on the water. I first changed the lower unit oil. (it was milky as I expected) I know I need to replace the seals in the lower unit and will do so soon. Which leads to my first question....how difficult is it to replace the seals in the unit? I've never done it before but I'm up to the challenge. I was just wondering if it would be better to have an outboard mech do it.

Now my second problem. I tried starting the motor using the key and could not get it to fire. After a few attempts I decided to try it the old fashion way with the pull rope. With a half a spin it fired right up. I repeated this process a few times. What I have noticed is that the starter clicks but does not engage the flywheel. The other thing I noticed is that the prop spins when the motor is supposedly in neutral. If the motor was not truely in neutral, would it keep the electric ignition from working? Any ideas here would be much appreciated.

Oh and my last question....where on the outboard can I find information related to what model the outboard is? For the life of me I can't seem to find it.

 

[freddyray21]

Re: Starting Problem and question about gearcase seal replacement

check the connections at the starter and battery and clean them up. You need a certain rpm out of the starter to engage the bendix. On land the prop will turn just a bit in neutral, but once in the water the resistance will stop it from turning.

 

[FBPirate95]

Re: Starting Problem and question about gearcase seal replacement

check the connections at the starter and battery and clean them up. You need a certain rpm out of the starter to engage the bendix. On land the prop will turn just a bit in neutral, but once in the water the resistance will stop it from turning.

Thanks...I will check the connection today. However I'm still not sure the motor is in neautral. Is there anyway I can positively know for sure if I am in neautral? I neautral required for the electric start to work?