Dark oil around prop after cranking engine - 1972 100HP Evinrude 100293R.

[rs2k]

I was having a problem starting this engine today. After a few minutes of cranking I notice a good amount of oil surrounding the prop. Is this normal? At first I thought it was fuel/oil mixture but I think it's the lubrication for the low end.

 

[jtexas]

Re: Dark oil around prop after cranking engine - 1972 100HP Evinrude 100293R.

It's not uncommon to have unburned engine oil dripping from the exhaust of a 2-stroke outboard especially after long period of inactivity or if you been running mostly at low speed a lot.

The gear oil I use (supertech) is golden in color, and stays light colored if changed annually. But if somebody else changed it last time, or if it's been a few years, it could be gear oil.

If you suspect it is, then drain the gearcase to see if any water is in there.