Checking out drive oil

[Cstelter]

Ok, I feel pretty stupid for asking this, but.....when I checked my lower unit oil after having it changed this week, the oil is coming up about an inch above the flat part of the dipstick. I did have the motor trimmed down when I checked it but the bow was backed into a driveway with the bow down because of the driveway slope. Would this cause a false high oil level reading for the lower unit?

 

[Cstelter]

Any feedback would be appreciated. I will not be Able to get back to the boat and put in a flat surface till later in the week. Thx

 

[HalfFish5087]

As long as the cavitation plate is level then the reading will be accurate. Sounds like they may have over filled. I would drain some and run it on the muffs and while idling put it in gear for a few minutes. Then let it sit for about 30 in the level position and check the oil level. Running it will help get out any air bubbles caused by improper filling.

 

[sdmnglastron189]

Same from Halffish, Run on muffs, make sure boat/drive is level and check after you have ran it for a while. Too much fluid will build pressure and blow seals.

 

[Cstelter]

Thx. Not so sure I had the cab plate fully level, going to get it level and re-check. Appreciate the input.

 

[Cstelter]

Took the boat in. Volvo service tech says all is fine. Too much oil in lower unit not really possible, just be sure to have enough. He showed me two others on the lot all showing the same.

 

[skydiveD30571]

Then he doesn't know what he's talking about. You can definitely have too much oil in lower unit, and it has caused more than one failure. Volvo even specifically mentions in bold letters in their manuals to make sure the drive is not overfilled. If you cannot get the level right on your own, find a new tech who knows what he's talking about to do it for you.

 

[Cstelter]

You know a tech I could call? I have contacted both in my area and got the same answer.

 

[skydiveD30571]

No I don't, but one is not needed to remove some drive oil until it is the correct level. A couple minute job at most. But if you want to go against the manufacturer's warning and leave it overfilled, you have every right to do so.

 

[Cstelter]

I see what you are reading, but every place I have asked tells me leave it along, too much is better than too little.

 

[bruceb58]

Get the drive level, take the back cover off and remove the level screw on the right hand side and enough oil will come out to make it the perfect level.

Too much oil can cause hard shifting.

 

[Cstelter]

OK, thanks for the tip. That, I can do.

 

[bruceb58]

You do have an SX drive right? I was assuming that but maybe you don't have that.

Read this so you can do it next time yourself. It also shows the screw plug I just mentioned.
http://forums.iboats.com/forum/engin...r-oil?t=598859