Gearcase question on XR4 and XR6...

[sosmerc]

Can someone tell me if there were any differences between the small diameter gearcases that Merc used on some of the XR4 and Xr6 (and Mariner Magnum II's)? If someone is looking for a small diameter XR6 case, isn't the small diameter case from a Mariner Magnum II the same?:confused:

[Eagle One]

Since you didn't get any replies I'll try to enlighten you a little. To begin with the small XR-2 and 4 units whether used on a Merc or a Mariner are IDENTICAL, The same is true of the XR-6 unit whether it was used on a Merc or a Mariner as both models were made in the same plant on the same day, the only difference being signage and color. The differences between the 2&4 and the 6 models are as follows: The drive shaft, housing and pinion bearings are different in that the XR2,4 unit has a smaller pinion bearing as is the drive shaft where the pinion bearing rides. The housing itself is approx 1 inch shorter from the bottom of the cavatation plate to the center of the prop shaft. The gears, remaining bearings, bearing carrier, prop shaft & seals and most other parts are identical and will interchange most of the time. If not there are several different forward gear bearings used by Merc in these units and although they are different in taper and size they will work in either unit. Hope this helps.
Eagle One

[sosmerc]

Thanks very much for you most helpful reply. I did see where they had two different casting numbers and now I see the different part numbers for driveshaft pinion bearing, etc, as you point out. I sold someone on the board a case from a Mariner Magnum II and he is having trouble making it work and I'm guessing the problem is due to a mis-match of parts. Things may sure look the same, but often they are not!!