Pulled the shaft on a 1994 Johnson 50/35 jet to replace/service the water pump impeller. No issues with the work, but after re-installing everything we realized that somehow a seal popped out of the shaft housing. Is it #4 in the following schematic.
https://www.marineengine.com/parts/johnson-evinrude-parts.php?year=1994&hp=50&model=J50BELERE&manufacturer=Johnson§ion=Exhaust+Housing+%26amp%3B+Stern+%26amp%3B+Swivel+Bracket
After finally figuring out what it was, my buddy says we don't need it. It looks like it fits dry around the shaft and fits super loose on the shaft itself. He doesn't seem to think it was doing anything anyway, especially how loosely it fit on the shaft. But maybe that means it is worn? He is a mechanical engineer and actually rebuilt this engine wonderfully 2 years ago. So I trust his judgement with the motor. But wanted to double check with the experts on here to see what everyone thought. Looks like we would have to pull the powerhead to replace that seal. Not a big deal if it needs to be replaced. Won't have the boat back out until mid November when duck season opens back up. So we have the time to do what is needed.
Thoughts?
https://www.marineengine.com/parts/johnson-evinrude-parts.php?year=1994&hp=50&model=J50BELERE&manufacturer=Johnson§ion=Exhaust+Housing+%26amp%3B+Stern+%26amp%3B+Swivel+Bracket
After finally figuring out what it was, my buddy says we don't need it. It looks like it fits dry around the shaft and fits super loose on the shaft itself. He doesn't seem to think it was doing anything anyway, especially how loosely it fit on the shaft. But maybe that means it is worn? He is a mechanical engineer and actually rebuilt this engine wonderfully 2 years ago. So I trust his judgement with the motor. But wanted to double check with the experts on here to see what everyone thought. Looks like we would have to pull the powerhead to replace that seal. Not a big deal if it needs to be replaced. Won't have the boat back out until mid November when duck season opens back up. So we have the time to do what is needed.
Thoughts?