Can you change the oil in a lower unit WITHOUT having an oil pump?

MickLovin

Master Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Feb 18, 2013
Messages
822
Re: Can you change the oil in a lower unit WITHOUT having an oil pump?

You can get condensation in your lower unit oil, and from what I read in the manual this is normal and that's why you change it out regularly I'd say every season to be sure, I make it a regular event with the impeller and the gear oil as well as greasing all my grease nipples. Using the clear oil, I get grey/dark grey when emptied after using for a season, depending on how much I have used it. At least if you have a regular maintenance program, you will pick up on things that need repair, tightening etc. As I have done lately, working on my motor, I have found little problems which I have rectified before they became big problems.
 

oldboat1

Fleet Admiral
Joined
Apr 3, 2002
Messages
9,612
Re: Can you change the oil in a lower unit WITHOUT having an oil pump?

yeah, if you crack the vent and the drain plugs a little, water might come out around the drain plug. Water settles to the bottom if the motor sits for a bit. If the oil is milky, there is probably a seal issue somewhere, but a little condensation isn't unusual. It sounds like Mick might be a little more dedicated than I am to changing out the lube, but i check it now and then in between changes.
 
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