Re using Gear Lube

ralphy670

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Jan 29, 2008
Messages
244
I just changed the Lube in my outdrive but now I need to remove it. Can I drain the lube into a clean container and re-use it or should I spend yet more money and buy a couple more jugs?
 

Gary H NC

Fleet Admiral
Joined
Dec 1, 2005
Messages
8,972
Re: Re using Gear Lube

If it is new reuse it...just make sure no contaminates get in it from draining into a pan or jug.
 

robert graham

Admiral
Joined
Apr 16, 2009
Messages
6,908
Re: Re using Gear Lube

It won't hurt it to drain it into a clean container and re-use it, just so long as it doesn't get contaminated in the process. My lower end unit oil is so clean when I drain it every year, I save it and use it for my chainsaw chain lubricant. Good Luck!
 

fishrdan

Admiral
Joined
Jan 25, 2008
Messages
6,989
Re: Re using Gear Lube

I've done it before with new lube, strained it through a paper towel to catch any dirt/debris though.

I read a Merc service bulletin once that mentioned reusing the gear lube. Had something to do with servicing a new drive.
 

John_S

Rear Admiral
Joined
Jun 21, 2004
Messages
4,269
Re: Re using Gear Lube

I just changed the Lube in my outdrive but now I need to remove it. Can I drain the lube into a clean container and re-use it or should I spend yet more money and buy a couple more jugs?

Depending on what you are planning to do and what drive, you might not have to drain it. If you are not tearing the drive down, and it is an alpha genII (probably others), it has a check-ball that closes when the drive comes off. The reserve bottle will have to be lowered or cleaned out, though.
 

fishrdan

Admiral
Joined
Jan 25, 2008
Messages
6,989
Re: Re using Gear Lube

Good point John.

On my "1" drive I can pull the whole drive (upper and lower) without draining the lube. If the lower is separated from the upper, then the lube needs to be drained.
 
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