Re: Out with Clutch Dogs: In with Ball Bearings in the OMC 6 HP

[Don]

Frank
Totally agree. While running in forward, there is minimum pressure/friction against these two parts, the clutch dog pin hits its stop against the prop shaft which minimizes spring pressure pushing that prop shaft back toward the prop shaft bushing/seal carrier. Sailboat/tender use will definitely accelerate this condition.
And yes, it would be best if I/we can figure a way to "pin" this thrust bushing to the bushing/carrier, this will definitely be a key focus on the next one of these gearcases I repair. The bushing seems to want stay in place, which is good, I guess maybe there is less rotating friction between the gear and bushing then the bushing and housing. This unit, is from a ratty old 7.5hp I will keep for myself, so I will monitor it closely. I got this engine thanks to Dan Anderson who picked it up for $30 and sent it up to me with the help of Gary Mower. To look at it, one would not think much, pretty ratty. But, as I have learned, never judge a book by its cover. I started by seeing if I could even get the gearcase off, it pulled right down and the splines looked fine. I pulled the head and exhaust cover, everything looked fine in there also!
I will post some pictures tonight. It just baffles me how engineers thought this gearcase could survive without a thrust bushing/bearing between the reverse gear and prop shaft bushing.