Source for lower unit leak?

[gunner1]

I have noticed alot of oil floating in the tub I use to run the motor on land. At first I thought it was just residual from the exhaust, but when I drain the water, the part of the lower that was in the water is COVERED in oil. I just drained the lower lube and after filling it late last summer and never running it except for maybe a total of 30 minutes between last year and now, only about half an inch worth came out into a container the same approximate dimensions as a coffe can! There is no chocolate milk, so I know that water isn't getting in. I checked the plastic gaskets on the vent and fill screws and they look intact. What's that little screw that is between them? I have a 1988 Force 50 hp outboard. Maybe that's the source?

 

[maxum247]

Re: Source for lower unit leak?

If your 50 is like my 125 Don't remove that screw!
Bad idea! Let's the shift go!
max!

 

[gunner1]

Re: Source for lower unit leak?

If your 50 is like my 125 Don't remove that screw!
Bad idea! Let's the shift go!
max!

Is it ok to loosen then retighten right away?

 

[fishnhunt]

Re: Source for lower unit leak?

Yes, that screw is the screw that holds your pinion gear in place. If you were to remove it, then shift, you could really mess things up!!! Then, you would have to disasemble your L/U to reinstall it! I wouldnt think you messesd anything up by loosening it up though!