Milky leak of some kind

[mikeh]

Hello All, I recently bought a Boat with a 120 hp merc i/o, i have a real slow leak . milky texture to it, runs down the front of what appears to be the flywheel cover same area right behind the starter, there is no water in the engine oil, no water in the lower unit, its all clean, just curious what this little leak may be? or if it is anything to be worried with, thanks for you time, great forum btw!

 

[wire2]

Re: Milky leak of some kind

When you say no water in the engine oil, is that during or soon after it's been running? Oil will rise & clarify slowly after. Is the level normal?
Is your oil pressure sender at the back? Possibly loose fitting. Or rocker cover gasket. Wipe the area dry with a rag & watch for fresh fluid.

 

[mikeh]

Re: Milky leak of some kind

I shut the motor off, checked the motor oil with 30 seconds or so. oil level is fne and looks like new oil . i let the motor run for probably 15 minutes prior to winterizing it. i was just looking stuff over before i stored it for the winter, this leak might fill up a cup in a hour, this led me to drain the lower unit as well just to make sure there was no water it it, looked fine , I will do as you said, wipe it all clean and try to pinpoint it. as far as oil pressure sender not real sure where it is, it has me curious where water and oil might be meeting to do this? this is a 83 model merc if this will clarify anything, Thanks again

 

[wire2]

Re: Milky leak of some kind

I'll guess you don't have power steering?
And the trim fluid is also clear?

 

[mikeh]

Re: Milky leak of some kind

Correct, No power steering. Didnt think of checking the trim goodies, I have it winterized now. but when spring rolls around i will check it first thing, Should i look at it before the real cold sets in, In case of water in the system?. Appreciate it

 

[DJ]

Re: Milky leak of some kind

Should i look at it before the real cold sets in, In case of water in the system?. Appreciate it

Yes, "milky" means water. Water fereezes and destroys things.