Changing transmission oil

[knotflying]

I just did the 50 hour change and the manual states that when cleaning the screen replace the gasket if necessary. Well I removed the plate, spring and filter, but didn't see a gasket on the plate nor the face on the transmission. Anyone else notice this on theirs when doing their changes? I haven't seen any leaking before the change and will monitor it after start up. It seems odd that there wouldn't be a gasket between the plate and the face.
Anyone have any input here?
Thanks

 

[PhilR]

I've been debating whether to do the gear oil change myself due to the inaccessibility of the filter cover. At 68, with arthritis, bifocals and replaced knees, it is a challenge. Did you lose oil to the bilge when the cover came off or did it all pump out? Any problems I should know about? Thanks.

Phil

 

[knotflying]

I didn't find it difficult at all. I pumped the oil out of the fill. There is about 1.8 quarts. I lost very little oil when I removed the cover. I always use a baby diaper underneath operations like this to catch and absorb things, maybe 4 tablespoons of oil poured out. There was a bit of small metal debris in the filter. I did most of the removal standing in the pit and feeling it rather than having to look down. I loosened each bolt so the pressure from the sping was even and then eventually removed the bolts one at a time. A small extention on the socket makes it easier. Rinsed the screen off and put it back together. Like I said though, no gasket, so hopefully, no leaks!

 

[HRowland]

Hi Mike,

Thanks for posting this, I will be doing the same in a few weeks. I just reviewed the Operation Manual and it appears that your obsevevation is correct, the KMH40A/50A do not have a gasket (see figure 3 for Periodic Maintenance Procedures). The diagrams only show a gasket for the KMH50V (item 3 in figure 4).

Howard

 

[knotflying]

Ah, now I feel better. I guess I read too much! I just took the boat for a short run and no leaks, so I guess I did okay. The first time without someone guiding you is always a bit daunting. At least we dont have to tie every nut and bolt with wire like we have to on our planes!

 

[rt11002003]

Two points: keep an eye on the filter plate, the slightest warping (or dirt) of surfaces without gaskets/o'rings can result in leakage; and, I never had a properly safetied nut or bolt vibrate loose.

gene