Pulling a Univeral Diesel

[Brunson Russum]

The Universal 5411 on my 1979 Catalina 27 has an oil leak. Some from the oil pan and some from the flywheel area. The oil pan gasket is not a problem. The leak at the flywheel is a concern. I have discussed the problem with a local marine mechanic that I have worked with before. He indicated that the engine would need to be pulled to service. He did not think that fixing the leak was a particular challenge. He was concerned, however, about the potential cause of the failure. I don't know if this type of problem is normal for the age of the engine. I would like to know what the alternative causes might be and how involved the repairs could get. As with most sailers, budget is an issue. I can do some work myself and am interested in learning more about the engine. I am a bit intimidated about dismantling the engine. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, Brunson Russum

 

[Larry Watkins]

5411 diesel

Brunson; The oil leak is more than likely the rear main seal. The engine will have to come out so it's a good time to rebuild it, an easy job. Disconnect the exhaust and replace the pipe, if you haven't already done so. Disconnect the wiring harness and the raw water intake, the transmission, (get rid of that federal coupling if you have one and install a dripless packing system if you haven't done it yet. Remove the motor mount nuts. Use the boom for a crane to get it to a dock cart. Have it rebuilt if you like, it's small and light enough two men can lift it. Take a deep breath and go for it!

 

[patricdk]

do it

i pulled mine twice. undo everything and make a map so you can replace it back again. remove the raqw water inlet in front of the engine. i hooked a come along on the boom and attached a chain to the engine with the existing bolts on the top. you will find something. attach the come along and depending how it is located on the boom will give you the direxction you need. run it toward the mast and when you start to lifrt the engine it will come forward as well. have someone below that can pull the engine forward as you lift. when it is in the cabin reposition the come along and lift it out. set it on bench seat and then you will have to reposition the boom again and then just lower it to the dock. it weighs in excess of 500 pounds so get a dolly. look in the yellow pages under tractors and find a kabota dealer. the universal is a kabota. i had mine rebuilt for half w=hat a marine mechanic wanted. don't listen when they tell you that you need marine parts because my kabota dealer supplies the same parts to the marine mechanic. good luck. if you think it is a chore try doing it twice.