89 Merc Classic 50- leaking oil from lower unit

[kngcrokr66]

Hello all, I have a 1989 Merc Classic 50 which I just bought and mounted on my boat about 2 months ago. It appeared to have very low hours, less than a hundred. I have run the boat twice, both times it ran flawlessly. I parked the boat and have not been out in about 45 days. While tinkering around it yesterday, I noticed a black spot under the skag. Upon closer inspection it was a spot roughly 3 to 4 inches in diameter. I looked to see where it was coming from, it appears to be leaking from the lower unit just behind the prop. It is not a lot of oil, however I never noticed any oil from my previos motor. Is this something I should have checked out, or is this normal?? Thanks in advance. <br />--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

[RICKRICK1]

Re: 89 Merc Classic 50- leaking oil from lower unit

Robert R if the spot is more black than brown it may be unburned fuel/oil mixture which has leaked from inside exhaust. Mercs are known for this. If it is brown or tan it may be coming from the lower unit. I would check (drain) the lower unit oil and refill it then check again after acouple of days, if it is leaking you would more than likely see fresh oil. Also if lower unit is leaking you normally get some water in it and the lower unit oil will be milky looking.<br /><br />hope this helps.

 

[kngcrokr66]

Re: 89 Merc Classic 50- leaking oil from lower unit

Thanks Rick! It is black, hope it is just exhaust. I was so stoked with the way the engine performed. Thanks a million.