397696 Bearing – Evinrude / Johnson Lower Unit Gearcase Bearing

The 397696 Bearing – Evinrude/Johnson is a heavy-duty tapered roller bearing designed for use in the lower-unit gearcase of classic outboard motors. This bearing supports both the radial and axial loads generated by the driveshaft and propeller. Its tapered-roller design allows for smooth rotation under thrust — exactly what a marine gearbox demands.

Used bearings or seals in gearcases often cause vibration, wear, or premature failure. A fresh 397696 bearing ensures proper alignment of the driveshaft, reduces friction, and delivers reliable power transfer to the propeller. When you replace worn parts with this bearing, you reduce the chance of shaft wobble, water intrusion, or gear misalignment.

This bearing suits a variety of Johnson and Evinrude outboards that use the small lower-unit gearcase setup. It is an ideal choice for restorations, rebuilds, or preventative maintenance. Because tapered roller bearings handle both thrust and radial loads, they are widely used in marine gearboxes for durability and smooth operation.

Use this bearing when overhauling the lower unit or replacing gears to ensure long service life and strong gearbox function.

Shop at Arizona Outboard Dismantlers to keep your outboard running strong and ready for the water.