Gearcase lube or excess unburnt oil?

[Steelwolve]

Hello all Im new to this site and had a couple of ?'s, if anyone had an opinion it would be much appreciated.

As the title suggests I have an oil leak in my 1962 5.5 hp Johnson. After reading the FAQ post on this subject im still unsure. The leak is coming out of the weap holes (water drain holes also maybe?) in the lower unit. I have changed the gear lube 3 times since ive had the motor, (about 3 months) and find it looking good with no signs of water, so Im pretty sure that it isnt gear lube oil leaking out, as the article stated id probally see water inside the gear case, more than what comes out. So im leaning towards the unburned oil as the cause, but the article says it should be black and sooty unless coming out of winter, right..?? Well my leak looks more like dirty white lithium grease. Ill attach some photos for reference. Its gotten worse since my last few uses. Also I took apart the gear case and the o ring seal and case seal were in good shape so I cleaned them up and added some silicone before reinstalling, will that work??I know I shoulda probally gotten new seals but dont have the time to wait on shipping. Whatta think???

 

[F_R]

Re: Gearcase lube or excess unburnt oil?

What I think is that you should have left the gearcase alone. It probably will leak now that you messed with it.

 

[Steelwolve]

Re: Gearcase lube or excess unburnt oil?

What I think is that you should have left the gearcase alone. It probably will leak now that you messed with it.

Man.. really,.. Why?.. is this due to the silcione use, or are you saying that a novice shouldnt attempt to open a gearcase?

I cleaned up old seal and area nicely and I havent refilled with oil yet till silicone sets. I also learned how the shifter works and inspected the gears for wear, which there was none. Im a first time outboard owner and thought that this is one I could learn the ropes of owning one with. Id like to learn to do the impeller next, but your reply makes it sound like this should only be attemped by a pro.

Also any thoughts on the leak? I use the motor often 2-3 times a week, and as I said its getting worse.

 

[Steelwolve]

Re: Gearcase lube or excess unburnt oil?

Does anyone else have an opinion?

 

[lindy46]

Re: Gearcase lube or excess unburnt oil?

If that's the residue from running it in a barrel, that's normal unburnt fuel/oil. I would suspect that is what it is, if your gearcase oil is clear and not milky.