Lower Unit Maintenance

dan1979

Seaman
Thread starter
Joined
Jun 16, 2008
Messages
54
Hello,

I own a 1986 Force 50HP outboard, I am about to change the lower unit oil and was wondering if anyone out there has any advice? (I have never done this before) I am curious as to what the best oil to use is, and how much it will take. When I drained it a few weeks ago the oil was very milky (much like chocolate milk) is this because the oil was old or do I have a bad gasket?

I will also be replacing the gaskets/seals as well. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance!

Dan
 

chuckz

Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Aug 22, 2004
Messages
625
Re: Lower Unit Maintenance

Milky means there was water in the oil. Could have been a bad gasket at the vent or fill plug or the output shaft seal. Inspect the lower unit for cracks.

Replace the oil with a good quality marine lower unit lube. I beleive it's 80 weight gear oil. Replace the seal on the fill and vent plugs when you change the oil.
 

dan1979

Seaman
Thread starter
Joined
Jun 16, 2008
Messages
54
Re: Lower Unit Maintenance

Chuck,

Hey thanks for the tips. About how much lower unit oil/lube does it take? I have 1 tube of it, will I need more?

Thanks,

Dan
 
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