Can't get my lower outboard unit back on

[Plymouth Sailor]

I removed my lower unit on my 8hp Yamaha aux outboard to replace the water pump/impeller and now I can't get it back on. I' ve lined up the three motor connections, the drive shaft, shifter and pee hole. I' ve also rotated the drive shaft to align the splines to no avail and I launch this Friday. Any suggestions appreciated!

 

[Chief RA]

Check both ends of the drive shaft and be sure the splines are lined up on BOTH ends. Many times the copper water pipe kicks out of alignment at the last second. Watch it all the way in! Chief

 

[JCall]

Is the shifter in neutral? If the shifter was in forward or reverse it could impede the lower end coming up to mate the flanges be cause you are having to compress springs too. I find it best to slowly turn the prop shaft while sliding the lower unit on. The mating flanges should be parallel while slowly turn the prop shaft gently applying pressure. I usually tilt the power head back on the stand or transom, then slide parts together so you can check the parallel of the mating flanges. Laying the power head on a table or bench will also help.

Do not use excessive force. Do not use a hammer. Lastly please do not start a fastener trying to wrench the two parts to be come one. My father used to say use finess, I say that you have to talk sweetly to it. If the correct parts are not lined up correctly they just will not go.

 

[kloudie1]

I agree with both above, having spent an hour trying to re-assemble a Yamaha 9.9.. We had both of the above.. the pipe not lining up was easy since you can see it.. the transmission not being in the correct spot/gear was harder..

 

[Chief RA]

Please let us know how it went. Chief

 

[Plymouth Sailor]

I was able finally to get my lower unit back on by laying the motor on it's side although it went begrudgingly. I'm not able yet to get it to "pee" after replacing the water pump and I'm sure the "pee hole" is clear. Launching this Friday so we'll see how it goes!

 

[JCall]

Try blowing compressed air backward from the pee hole. Bugs and debris will clog the water flow.
If water is not coming out the pee hole the engine will not be cooled and will overheat. No water coming out do not continue to run.

 

[Chief RA]

Laying it on its side can cause the water copper tube to NOT line up! That makes it even more critical to watch the pipe into the receptacle rubber. Don't run it! Chief

 

[Plymouth Sailor]

I was able to get the unit back in place however it sounds like putting a playing card into a spoke of a bike, any suggestions?

 

[Chief RA]

Check your prop. Sounds like the drive shaft is not engaging or driving the prop in forward/reverse or neutral. Best guess, Chief

 

[Plymouth Sailor]

It does go into F/N & R however it may need tweaking, thank you!

 

[Crazy Dave Condon]

If all else fails, suggest going to a mechanic with the engine.

 

[Chief RA]

Sounds like the 2 shift rod ends are not matched up properly. If that adjustment fails heed what Crazy Dave suggests as trying it is a risky option. Good Luck, Chief

 

[Plymouth Sailor]

That sounds right! Do you mean the clamp that holds the shift rod needs to be adjusted, i.e. from both sides to match the tension on both sides?

 

[Chief RA]

I am trying to visualize but basically I think you have it right. Loosen the clamp just barely enough to be able to move the top and bottom rod in it. Put motor in neutral and start it. Test the prop to determine it can be easily stopped while in neutral position. If still clicking adjust shift rods in clamp up and down until in the middle between F & R. If you get that then tighten the clamp and test in forward and reverse. If we are right you should be in business! Make sure the water is pissing strong! Chief

 

[Plymouth Sailor]

Thanks Chief!