Ring or seal on driveshaft to water pump housing?

Hello all!

Today I removed my lower unit to check on the impeller and housing. I want to check the motor over before I use it for peace of mind.

The impeller looked good, but I ordered one anyway. I have 2 questions.

• Is there supposed to be a seal or something on the drive shaft that pushes down into the water pump housing? (Pictured below) Seems like water would be forced out this area without a seal? It seems like all the videos I have watched on lower units getting pulled, there is a seal or ring there.

I do not see one on the diagram either.

• The water pump housing sits on a metal plate. No gaskets on either side of the metal plate or sealer. I do not see 2 gaskets in the diagram, so I imagine that is just how it goes. BUT, should I use a sealer on the bottom or top of the plate?

Thanks ya'll!

Mercury 20HP 4 Stroke
Model #1F20201HK
Serial #OR373688

You got it right, no seal on shaft, the top of the impeller hub area forms an adequate seal. A very light coat of silicone base sealer can be used on each side of plate edges, but not required.