wrote in message
...
On Wed, 1 Apr 2009 16:20:03 -0600, "SteveB"
wrote:

The real test is to put a little pressure (a couple PSI) into the
lower unit, spray the seals with soapy water and look for bubbles.
If it isn't one of the big shaft seals you might get away with just
replacing the shift shaft seal. That is 2 screws and doesn't require
tearing into the foot but that would not let out out while it was
sitting. If it leaks on the trailer it is most likely the prop shaft
seal. That is a big deal.
I have been in a lower unit several times. The first couple were a
serious learning experience along with an excuse to buy tools. I am
fairly comfortable in there now but it is still a daunting task if it
hasn't been opened up for a while since stuff will be corroded into a
single mass of metal. Getting the bearing carrier out can really be a
chore, even with the puller. Don't lose the 3 loose ball bearings on
the shaft ! ;-)
You also need a set of seal seating tools to get them back in without
screwing them up. I had them from working on car transmissions.

Before you even start, get some good anti-sieze compound and use it on
every bolt and screw you put back. I like "Never-seez". It is nasty
stuff to work with, it seems to stain everything it touches but it
does stop most of the problems with galling out the holes when you
remove a screw in a couple years. Salt water is hell on aluminum when
you put a stainless screw in it. You guys are famous for your salt
water. ;-)
I am guessing you are closer to Lake Powell tho.

Yeah, all this has seen is fresh water. I called the local Merc dealer
today, and they said they'd charge me an hour for an estimate, then credit
it back if I had the repairs done. May go that way, as I'd like to have
it
right from the get go.

Steve


The dealer is not evil. That is where the best people work, just try
to be sure that is the one working on your engine. I have had very
good and very bad experiences at a dealer. Ask around. See if you can
find happy customers.
BTW sometime the dealer is way best.
I needed a shift cable for my Merc. It was over $60 at West Marine for
a generic cable and 2 bags of parts. The dealer had exactly the right
"drop in" cable for about $40 (actually overnighted in)

I have had many experiences with dealers and repair shops in my 60 years.
There are some things that one wants a trained technician to do, and some
things that a DIYer can handle. I just don't like taking something in, and
being taken to the cleaners.

My BIL just payed $125 for a lawnmower repair man to take an old carburetor
off that was "too gummed up" and replaced it with a used one off a dead
piece of machinery. Such a nice guy.

Steve