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Pre Oiling Gearcase on Reassembly (Johnson 55HP)

jasondainter

jasondainter

Regular Contributor
Hi Folks.

I have a Johnson 55HP from 1980 (engine model 55EL80C).

Im reassembling the entire lower unit after fixing a ground up reverse gear / clutch dog.

Im following the original service manual however when reassembling the gearcase I was suprised it didnt mention using any gear oil when putting the cleaned/dry parts back together. Obviously I'll add said oil before starting the engine, but when starting the motor for first time was a bit worried that oil may not have found its way into all the parts (eg in between the thrust bearing/washer etc), which could cause dry parts to cause damage.

Is there any reason why the service manual omits that that I'm not aware of and what do you all do when reassembling these?

I think I read someone saying they dipped their whole gearcase and soaked in oil before reassembling, is that reccomended?

Thanks ahead!
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It's hard to imagine it could have any dry parts once you fill it with oil and all the parts are submerged in it. Possible exception might be the upper drive shaft bearing.
 
I lightly coat the parts as I assemble them, done tons of lower units. I keep a handy little squeeze bottle with gear lube in it. (The kind of bottle that comes with hair color for example). Dipping is too messy. When things are together and before I fill the unit with oil, I pressure test to about 15 psi. I move shafts, shift rod, anything else that moves when in operation. While doing so I watch pressure to see that it stays at 15 psi. By not doing this, its like "test driving a car in neutral"...…...how much you gonna learn? Nice work area, everything clean. One beer and "all is well".
 
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