Re: Replacing the shift rod o-ring, do the bushing as well?

[johnyrude200]

I have the original special tool to drive them out, and have to say I prefer Frank’s strategy of tapping the bushing, threading a screw in, then driving it out using a center punch and hammer. The original special tool sort of works but seems to distort the bushing (since it is just soft brass), or the bushing becomes stuck on the special tool, or the special tool progressively becomes ‘marred’ on both ends (1 from the hammer, the other from the impact on the bushing).

Frank’s trick has worked 100% of the time. I actually used a paint marker to indicate on my tap how far down to go on the bushing so I don’t thread all the way down. This took a couple of practice gearcases (which were junkers…make it a point to practice new skills on junk motors that are already on their way to the big lake in the sky). Some of them require a pretty good wallop to initially jar free, but using a center punch affords the ability to give it a good whack. Once they start to move the rest is clockwork.

Some of the veteran mechanics here may frown on me, and if so, I will listen….but I’ve been reusing those bushings and they all seem to be working fine so far (Granted, I have plenty to learn). I do have a good supply of NOS for most of the small gearcases should one look or seem to be shaky. The gearcases have >so far< all passed pressure tests. I usually put a small smear of gasket seal around the bushing for good measure, it’s the type that is non-hardening for crankcases so that if it needs to be removed in the future it can still be taken out.