Repair help, Crack in Alpha 1 lower unit

[semaj.3]

This past weekend I hit something out in the bay and damaged my lower unit. I was able to make it back into the marina. The boat seems to drive fine but is not holding oil due to a crack in the lower unit. See pictures attached. Any help with repair recommendations would be greatly appreciated. Do you think that this can be weld repaired and if so do I have to take the lower unit off to repair? Any other suggestions would be appreciated.



Thanks,
semaj.3

 

[jpk33]

If you have insurance, they should cover the cost!

 

[JimG]

With a hit like that, I would be surprised if something else isn't damaged. I would look at the gimbal ring closely.

 

[Gunn]

Buying used off Ebay, or the like, is the way to go. A friend of mine had to replace his upper unit and bought an "as-is" unit for cheap on Ebay, that I helped him replace. Been three years now and is still running great.

 

[SCORPIO]

If it didn't hold oil then it certainly got saltwater into the bearings and gears so I think I'd do as others have said and replace the lower unit.

 

[JimG]

If it didn't hold oil then it certainly got saltwater into the bearings and gears so I think I'd do as others have said and replace the lower unit.

Quickly! Or you will be into bearings and possibly pitted gears!

 

[SCORPIO]

Good catch Jim, I forgot about the common oil system of the Alpha. If water got into the lower it got to the upper gears and bearings as well. I think in addition to a replacement lower, I'd have the upper looked at to be sure there is no pitting or rust on the gears/bearings.