50hp force oil leak

[hwl77]

i have a 1988 50hp force. i noticed water/oil mixture leaking from one of four bolts that connects lower gear to foot.( im not sure if im using correct terms) took it to local marine and they found fishing line wrapped around prop. they also found that the bushing inside prop was bent. they pulled out the fshing line and told me it would be $4000.00 to install a seal kit. i didnt have the seals installed. i brought the boat home and ran motor in water drum for just a minute. could not see any leaks. pulled motor out of water and waited for it to dry. i found black oil leak at same bolt as before. not enough to even drip. is it gear lube and do i need seals replaced? i dont want to spend the $400 unless im sure its neccessary. thank you to anyone that can give me any advice. harry

 

[Squeakit]

Re: 50hp force oil leak

If the leak appears to be coming from the forward right-hand (as your facing the prop) bolt, look closer and you will find a hole which drains the lower leg of the motor and will leak unburned fuel mixture and some water. This does not mean bad seal in lower gearcase. Check your gearcase oil. If it is milky then you have water getting in. If its clear then you are OK. The unburned fuel-oil mixture "leak" will be more after a period of idling because it builds up inside the lower leg. This is completely normal.

 

[hwl77]

Re: 50hp force oil leak

squekit thanks for the reply.<br />gear lube is definitely leaking from around bolt located above drain vent screw. i let a little gear lube out and saw no sign of any water. it was black, the same color of what is leaking from bolt. i wiped off the leaking oil from bolt 4 hours ago and its back without running motor. <br /><br />this is a great board. i have been reading it for hours over the last <br />couple of days since i found it.<br /><br />thanks harry