Can Lower Unit Be Left Drained?

[Caldelta]

I found water in my lower unit and left it drained until I can have it repaired in 2 months. The boat is in a warm California climate covered in the driveway. Is it ok to leave drained until repair?

 

[ob]

Re: Can Lower Unit Be Left Drained?

I don't see a problem in two months , however since water was in unit I would flush some oil through it from top hole to remove excess emulsification and insure plugs are installed while stored.

 

[Mikedg]

Re: Can Lower Unit Be Left Drained?

I would flush the drive and leave it filled to ensure there is no possibility of corrosion damage.<br /><br />A leaky seal and/or gaskets are one thing, rust dammage would be really expensive.

 

[DJ]

Re: Can Lower Unit Be Left Drained?

Refill it.

 

[ODDD1]

Re: Can Lower Unit Be Left Drained?

Harris, every spring we boat mechanics get at least one of you guys in the shop, and we laugh our butts off.....for your knowledge, a lower unit empty of gear lube [and fill screws back in the holes] will make approximately 1/4 mile out of the harbor under full throttle before eating itself....if you leave the screws out, you can get a full 1/2 mile out before failure, because of the cooling effects of the water inside the case.....you can surely guess why I am so knowledgeable of this subject, and in every instance the owner had the best intentions.....fill it up, just so if you forget to have it fixed, no one can call you a dumba$$!