Lower unit Lube color

[dstom]

As part of the recent restoration of the 1971 100HP Evinrude, I drained and refilled the lower unit with Type C grease. The old lubricant was very thick and dark (it had not been changed for 15 yrs, but the last 10 it was not used). Because I wanted to get rid of all the old lubricant, I decided that I would change the new lubricant after about 10 hours of use. I did that this weekend, but I was surprised at the color of the grease when it drained out of the LU. It was a puke,mustard yellow. There was no metal in it, nor did I find any water. What color should the old lubricant be, and is the yellow color indicative of any potential problem?

Thanks for your advice!

 

[kfa4303]

Re: Lower unit Lube color

Ideally, it should look like honey, or baby shampoo. Sort of a clear, amber color. If it's at all cloudy, or milky in appearance then you have water intrusion in the gearcase, even if you don't necessarily see water. If there is a leak, and you 're lucky, the easiest fix is to change the white, nylon washers for the DRAIN/VENT screws and hope that stops the leak. However, if you're not so lucky you may have to change the seals in the LU. In any event, you want clear, amber/yellow gearcase oil with the consistency similar to molasses. Hope that helps.

 

[jayyyy]

Re: Lower unit Lube color

If your motor has a hydro electric shift (push button) shift it uses type C premium blend, basically ATF. Its red in color and low vicosity like atf. Sounds like someone put 90w gear oil in it. make sure you use the correct lower unit lube or you will be hating your motor.