Newbie lower unit oil ?

[Ziggy4]

Here's another question. :redface:I have an 88 20hp johnson that I noticed after a quick spin had a little bit of oil coming out of a small whole that is on the left side of the lower unit. It was just a bit. I ran the motor at home with water running through and no oil came out at all. Im not sure if this is normal or something is about to go. On the right side theres a screw with flat head top that I think is the spot to check the oil and maybe add. I would also like to know how to replace the fluid for the lower unit? THANKS

 

[Daviet]

Re: Newbie lower unit oil ?

If you are talking about the drain hole, about 1/8", it is probably unburn't 2 cycle oil, that is not uncommon. You should have 2 large slotted screws on the lower unit, starboard side, DO NOT TOUCH THE PHILLIPS HEAD screw towards the very bottom. The upper screw is the vent and the lower screw is the drain. Remove the lower screw and then the upper screw. While the lower unit is draining replace the nylon seal washers on both screws. Fill from the bottom until the oil comes out the upper screw. Install upper screw while filler is still in the lower screw hole, remove filler and install upper screw. Make sure both screws are tight.

 

[Ziggy4]

Re: Newbie lower unit oil ?

Awsome Daviet Im going to get on it in the morning and change out the fluid. Im sure its been a while since its been done. Thanks

 

[psteurer]

Re: Newbie lower unit oil ?

It would be a good idea to change the lower unit oil every year. The usual practice is to change it before cold weather sets in. The reason is there could be a small amount of water in the lower unit and it could freeze. It is not expensive and pretty easy to do once you do it once. The biggest problem is sometimes getting the drain and fill screws out. Getting new sealing washers is a good idea if the screws are hard to get out. Here is how to change the oil:

http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=299680