Volvo MSB gearbox oil leak

[baloo925]

My Volvo MSB reverse / reduction box leaks oil where the operating rod enters the top of the box.I assume there is an oil seal which can be replaced.
The rod is held in place by a square plate with a screw at each corner which on removal would appear to allow the rod to be withdrawn however the diagram in the Volvo handbook shows two spring loaded ballbearings which press onto the rod to stop it from vibrating out of gear.If I withdraw the rod will the ballbearings fall into the box.
Has anyone replaced this oilseal before --Is there a better way?

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[thalassa]

I did this a few years ago, on anchor in an estuary, and remember it as easy and hassle-free. After removal of the 4 bolts , the top assembly comes off, and can be withdrawn. Nothing falls off. You can take it home and disassemble it further at ease. The oil-seal is a standard one, a ceramic doughnut with a spring in, which you can get at a specialist firm for 1 /8 of the Volvo replacement part.
One caveat: To get at the oil seal, you have to take the central stem apart. There are probably a few washers ( shims actually ) under the central top bolt. THESE ARE ESSENTIAL.Check the thickness of your new oil seal against the original one. It must be the same. After reassembly, check the operation of the gearbox by working it on engine while still moored. If the shim thickness is not right within the mm, the gearbox will jam.


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[baloo925]

Thalassa
Thanks for the great info

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