Help With 1997 90HP Lower Unit

[Dave in Mpls]

Got word that the lower unit on my 1997 90HP Merc is toast from a high RPM shift into reverse (don't ask!)

Curious what the thoughts are in regard to replacing. I guess my options are to find a used one (condition would most probably be unknown), buy a remanufactured (as good as the tech doing the work), or bite the bullet and buy a new one.

The motor has never given me a bit of trouble, and doesn't owe me a dime. As the season is fairly short here in MN, what does the "smart $" do to get back on the water?

Thanks for any thoughts!

[EuropeanAM]

If you can provide the engine's serial number, I'll be glad to research options.

[Dave in Mpls]

If you can provide the engine's serial number, I'll be glad to research options.

Thanks much for the help, Don

The serial # is 0G582536

[EuropeanAM]

You can purchase a brand-new (Part# 9011J15) for a relatively reasonable cost.

Sherm @ Sherm's Marine (or we) would be more than happy to assist you with a replacement.

Email or Phone are the BEST means of contacting the Parts Department(s).

[Dave in Mpls]

Howdy, Don!

Sorry for the late reply - had to leave town to visit a client with issues (don't all clients have issues!)

I'll give a hollar to Sherm upon my return.

Could you possibly confirm the part number 9011J15 (6 jaw)? The one estimate I got thus far called for a 9011J16 (3 jaw).

Best Regards

[EuropeanAM]

Technically, you could use EITHER gearcase.

Personally, I'd go with the J15 (6 jaw).

[HDETERS]

I have a new one for sale in the motor parts forum. Ask Don if it will work for you. This unit was never bolted up and I have the box it came in (box not in the best shape but I do have it) Let me know if you would be interested.

[Dave in Mpls]

I have a new one for sale in the motor parts forum. Ask Don if it will work for you. This unit was never bolted up and I have the box it came in (box not in the best shape but I do have it) Let me know if you would be interested.

I'll definately keep that as an option, Hans. Not sure if I could live with a grey lower unit on a black motor!!

[Dave in Mpls]

Technically, you could use EITHER gearcase.

Personally, I'd go with the J15 (6 jaw).

Thanks, Don!

Assuming I currently have the 3 jaw (J16), would there be any other parts which would need to be changed in making the move to the 6 jaw (i.e. shift shaft in mid-section)?

Regards

[EuropeanAM]

I'll definately keep that as an option, Hans. Not sure if I could live with a grey lower unit on a black motor!!

One can of "Mercury Phantom Black" paint would solve that.

You should not need to make any modifications to your engine when installing either gearcase (should be a direct bolt-on replacement).

Some minor differences in the shape of the AFT end of the case, but the bolt pattern/geometry is the same.

Internal difference is primarily the number of "ramps" on the reverse gear (and clutch dog).

[HDETERS]

Do let me know if you would be interested. Very easy to shoot Phantom Black. I Shoot my drives every Spring to make them like new.

[Dave in Mpls]

Do let me know if you would be interested. Very easy to shoot Phantom Black. I Shoot my drives every Spring to make them like new.

Will do, Hans

[Dave in Mpls]

One can of "Mercury Phantom Black" paint would solve that.

You should not need to make any modifications to your engine when installing either gearcase (should be a direct bolt-on replacement).

Some minor differences in the shape of the AFT end of the case, but the bolt pattern/geometry is the same.

Internal difference is primarily the number of "ramps" on the reverse gear (and clutch dog).

The reason I was asking about the shift shaft came some verbage I saw on the SEI website regarding the SE205 replacement lower unit when exploring this option. In the description of that lower unit, they state "This unit will not replace a 3 jaw lower unit unless you also change the shift shaft in the midsection". Perhaps this is specific to the SE205?

Regards

[EuropeanAM]

Sorry.... I don't deal with the "aftermarket" units....