Water in lower unit. What do i do???

[Rodrunner]

I have a 2008 merc optimax 150. I pulled my drain today to change the oil in my lower unit and got app. 1/2 cup of water before the oil started coming out. Ugh!! I really dont know what to do. The thing has been running great as always. I think ive probably had it out 6 or 8 times since i last checked oil. No water last time. As far as history; i changed my impeller at the end of the 2010 season. So i ran it all last year with no problems and no water in unit. Also should mention i just had boat out yesterday and day before. The boat sat app. 24 hours. would all of that water seperated already?

So....What i need to know is did I damage my lower unit? What would cause the water to be there? How can i fix it? Any other advise and or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I'm hoping its as simple as a seal?????

Thanks so much for your help.

Jason

 

[Wingedwheel]

Re: Water in lower unit. What do i do???

You probably didn't do any damage as there was still oil in the unit. I'd change the oil making sure you replace the seal washers on the drain and vent plugs. Run it, re-drain the oil and see if it has water in it again. If so then you will need to start looking at the LU seals.

 

[Rodrunner]

Re: Water in lower unit. What do i do???

Would it even be possible to get a half cup water from the cap seals..they actually look pretty good. What seals in the lower unit should I look at? Sorry for my ignorance. I'm just looks for help so I don't screw it up..lol thanks again

 

[aussieflash]

Re: Water in lower unit. What do i do???

Have you spotted any leaks around lower unit.If water is getting in,oil must be getting out.Check lower plug for metal shavings.Fine shavings OK, chunky bits not OK.
Do as WINGEDWHEEL suggested,and definitely change seals on both plugs(use correct ones from merc).
Did you change pump base when doing impeller? O rings and seals in correct place?Just a thought.

 

[Rodrunner]

Re: Water in lower unit. What do i do???

I have not spotted any leaks. I do check the oil level a couple times a season and seems to need topped off each time but i guess that is normal..?? Or maybe i have a leak somewhere. This is the first time ive ever had even a drop of water come out. I have never changed the drain and vent plug seals tho. I'll start there. Hopefully the boat shop has some in stock. Need to get this resolved as im going on a 12 day fishing trip soon.. I'm open for any other thoughts.