Thin film of RTV on lower unit or NO?

[Coachjfk]

1976 Johnson 115. I'd like to change impeller on water pump and notice that there is red RTV at the mating surface of the Lower Unit and motor. Is this supposed to be there? I don't see any sealer being used when I watch other LU repairs on Youtube. If it is not supposed to be there, any thoughts on: 1) How to seperate? (I'm imagining this will make disassembly much harder) 2) Good way to remove RTV and 3) Any suggestions to clean up mating surfaces?

Thanks in advance

 

[interalian]

No need for sealant there. Clean off by rubbing.

 

[F_R]

OK, let me say I agree, there is no need for any sealant. However, lots of people get anxious or upset when they see water leaking out of that seam. For that reason, I do apply sealer and suggest others do also if they are going to be bothered by leakage. The factory did seal them.

Having said all that, any leakage there is absolutely harmless. Any water that comes out there has gone through the powerhead and done its job, and is on its way back to the lake anyway.

 

[Coachjfk]

Thanks F_R what do you recommend to seal with? I am thinking that when I go to break this bond in a few weeks when I get my impeller that the RTV is going to hold on pretty tight.