Start/Run 4-Tec without Drive Shaft?

[RowdyRod]

Hi Guys,

I needed to remove my 4-Tec from my 2007 Speedster to replace a broken stator.... what a challenge!! I'm glad I pulled the engine as 2 engine mounts were broken and the third was on the way out. I'm finally at the stage of putting everything back but I have a quick question.... Can I start and run the 4-Tec without the drive shaft installed?? Or will I end up with oil running out of the PTO. Obviously I will still use the water hose to cool the exhaust.

P.S. This is the first question I have needed to ask as every time I ran into a problem I would simply find my answer or at least some pointers by using the search on this site... nice one!!

Rod.

 

[JPass]

I believe you will be fine.

 

[xintersecty]

Negative Ghost rider. I just did it myself. It sprays oil out the PTO. You can do it but be ready to clean an oil mess.

 

[Sportster-2001-951C-Stock]

Yep, I've heard oil will come out the PTO.

 

[JPass]

I stand corrected.

 

[Sportster-2001-951C-Stock]

Maybe there was a change for 2012 and yours doesn't, I wouldn't know but if you discover that's the case be sure to mention it. Until then, I'm assuming all 4-tecs will squirt oil.

 

[RowdyRod]

Thanks for the quick advice guys! After spending many hours cramped inside the engine bay and many more hunched over the transom at weird angles that probably are only ever experienced attempting Kama Sutra I was loath to have to clean up an oily mess, so I just went ahead and installed the shaft.

I finally have success after many weeks of work, I spent 3 hours out on the water today and she did not miss a beat, my battery is still charged and I don't have that damn beeper ringing in my ears.

Thanks again!

 

[Sportster-2001-951C-Stock]

Nice job man, good to hear! The sense of accomplishment and years of boating you'll enjoy are your reward.

I just completed a Mercruiser replacement, and yes I always run the new engines 20 minutes at high idle before dropping them in for alignment. This one had rotten motor mounts in the hull unfortunately, I rebuilt them using very dry pressure treated 2x4 blocks and a few quarts of epoxy mixed with sawdust then glassed back over. Runs like a champ, it's a nice 22' cuddy boat and the owner was thrilled with everything aside from the (very cheap IMO) $4,700 price tag.

 

[xintersecty]

Thanks for the quick advice guys! After spending many hours cramped inside the engine bay and many more hunched over the transom at weird angles that probably are only ever experienced attempting Kama Sutra I was loath to have to clean up an oily mess, so I just went ahead and installed the shaft.
Thanks again!

I too experience the agonizing pain of working at weird angles and having the transom grind into my gut and groin. Glad you got your boat working. Do you have pictures of your install?

 

[go_panthers]

I have an old pillow in the garage labeled "seadoo pillow" in big letters. Handy to have when working at odd angles.