Minute amount of water in lower unit

ryanr623

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jul 11, 2008
Messages
489
After a couple times out on the water, when i check the outdrive oil, a few drips of water (maybe a teaspoon) come out first and then straight, non milky, fresh gear lube. Also, no leaks on dry land. My mechanic said it was most likely condensation from checking the lube so much, since the seals are new, has new drain/vent screws (and orings) and there aren't any apparent cracks. Has anyone else had this? Or believe condensation could happen? He said not to worry about it, but i'd like some other opinions.
 

Howard Sterndrive

Rear Admiral
Joined
Nov 5, 2008
Messages
4,603
Re: Minute amount of water in lower unit

it's not condensation. probably the outer propshaft seal. check for fishing line in there.
whether you want to address it, or just change the lube more frequently is up to you
could answer more specific if we knew what sort of drive this is
 

ryanr623

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jul 11, 2008
Messages
489
Re: Minute amount of water in lower unit

it's not condensation. probably the outer propshaft seal. check for fishing line in there.
whether you want to address it, or just change the lube more frequently is up to you
could answer more specific if we knew what sort of drive this is

It is a 1982 mercrusier 120, alpha one drive. It was originally (according to PO) a pre-alpha or MR drive (cant remember which). When that went out after 20 years of use he bought a used, but tested alpha one. So it originally came with a pre alpha, but currently has an alpha one on there. Not sure if that matters.
 

Howard Sterndrive

Rear Admiral
Joined
Nov 5, 2008
Messages
4,603
Re: Minute amount of water in lower unit

outer propshaft seal most likely

there are 2 "back to back" lip type seals there- the inner one keeps the oil in and the other one keeps water out

outer seal failure very common where monofilament fishing line is abundant
 

ryanr623

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jul 11, 2008
Messages
489
Re: Minute amount of water in lower unit

outer propshaft seal most likely

there are 2 "back to back" lip type seals there- the inner one keeps the oil in and the other one keeps water out

outer seal failure very common where monofilament fishing line is abundant

Is there a service bulletin on how to change this?
 
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