Seals in drive unit

DreamBoater

Cadet
Joined
Jul 27, 2007
Messages
11
I am getting ready to pull the drive unit so I am able to lift my motor for repairs. I was checking the oil in the drive and noticed it had a little water in it not much but enough to make me concerned. What seals are most likely to leak water into the unit. The bellows are all new so I pretty much eliminated that area as a possibility. any info greatly appreciated Thanks.
 

gamarines2

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Jun 14, 2007
Messages
102
Re: Seals in drive unit

Well, it could be one of three areas of water penetration outside the drive, The drain/fill plug on the bottom, the vent plug on the top, or the rubber seal between the upper and lower units.

I could also be the oil seals in the upper unit, but I believe you would have oil leaking out of them if they went bad.

I have resealed my upper, but I am a do-it-yourself cadet. Listen to the experts, but I had some limited experience to share.
 

fishnfiend

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Aug 11, 2005
Messages
115
Re: Seals in drive unit

Did you check the bellow to verify that it was dry inside? Water in the bellow could intrude into the upper housing through the yoke seal. I found that out last weekend. My dang bellows were only 1 year old, and both the drive and the exhaust bellow had leaks.

Others not yet mentioned are the prop shaft seal and the cap seal on top of the upper housing (not too likely on this one, but possible).

Get that water the heck out of there fast though. It's amazing how quickly bearings and gears can get pitted.

A pressure test is necessary to ensure that the seals are holding and to identify the culprit(s). Should hold up to 15 psi without leaking. Search for "pressure test" and you'll get lots of info.

Good luck.
 
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