1975 85 hp Johnson, advice on dropping the lower unit

External Since: May 20, 2006 Posts: 1

I'm new to the group, so sorry if this is a repeat item. I'm trying to
remove the lower unit of a 1975 85 hp Johnson to change out the water
pump. I removed 6 bolts (1 holding the 'rudder tab", 1 under the tab,
4 under the anti-cavitation plate.) I can not get the lower unit off.
I has moved less then a 1/4". Before I REALLY pull on it, is there
something else holding it? The repair manual talks about a pair of
wires to disconnect but I don't think mine is a electronic shift.

External Since: Jun 11, 2006 Posts: 2

"tall jeff" wrote in message

> I'm new to the group, so sorry if this is a repeat item. I'm trying to
> remove the lower unit of a 1975 85 hp Johnson to change out the water
> pump. I removed 6 bolts (1 holding the 'rudder tab", 1 under the tab,
> 4 under the anti-cavitation plate.) I can not get the lower unit off.
> I has moved less then a 1/4". Before I REALLY pull on it, is there
> something else holding it? The repair manual talks about a pair of
> wires to disconnect but I don't think mine is a electronic shift.

Maybe it's the shift shaft holding it together still. Mine is a bit newer,
but on both sides there is a plastic screen, about 1 1/4" x 2".You remove
screws from one side allowing both sides to come off. Inside there is a
double nut afair that connects the shift rod(s) together. Mines an 82, but I
doubt if there is much differance.

Robby