Mercury Optimax 115 Service Manual page 428

8. After driveshaft is removed from gear case, remove and retain shim(s) that were lo-
cated under upper tapered driveshaft bearing.
9. If inspection determines that replacement of driveshaft tapered bearing is required,
remove bearing from driveshaft as follows:
a. Position driveshaft in a vise; DO NOT tighten vise jaws against shaft.
b. Strike shaft with a lead hammer; take care not to drop shaft.
10. Remove 18 loose needles from outer race of driveshaft needle bearing.
11. If inspection of driveshaft needle bearing surface determines that replacement of
needle bearing is required, the 18 loose needle bearings previously removed must
be reinstalled in bearing race to provide surface for mandrel to drive against.
NOTE: Reverse gear must be removed first before removing driveshaft needle bearing.
IMPORTANT: Discard driveshaft needle bearing after removal. (Bearing cannot be
reused.)
a -
b -
c -
*From Bearing Removal and Installation Kit (91-31229A5)
90-855347R1 JANUARY 1999
Mandrel (91-37263)
Pilot* (91-36571)
Driver Rod* (91-37323)
51866
c
b
a
51869
LEFT HAND NON-RATCHETING
Page 6B-27