Drain Oil Before Dropping Lower Unit?

[minuteman62-64]

I may be approaching the point where I'll have to drop the lower unit on my 1982, 30 HP, Mariner to diagnose a cooling water problem. I have the factory manual and the Clymer Mariner book and the steps look pretty straight forward. However, the procedures in both manuals begin with draining the gearcase lube.

In my situation, the gearcase lube has just been replaced and has zero hours on it. I'm not planning on doing anything other than an inspection, possibly followed by some diddling with the water pump/cooling water circuit.

Is it necessary to drain the gearcase lube everytime you drop the lower unit? I'm not particularly worried about the added weight of a couple of pints of lube.

 

[Gibbles]

Re: Drain Oil Before Dropping Lower Unit?

You don't need to

most of the manuals start with the assumption that you are going to rebuild.

 

[ufm82]

Re: Drain Oil Before Dropping Lower Unit?

Gibbles is correct- the L/U is basically a self-contained unit with only a passge for water. The gearcase is completely sealed from anywhere else. Take out the bolts and have at it.