1976 Mercury 115 HP Oil Leak

[yankees_man_20]

Im just getting this motor pieced back together. I ran it in my yard several times. Today, I let it run, went into the house and came back out and noticed what appeared to be a brown oil slick running down the skegg. It appears to be coming from around the prop or through the prop. I believe the exhaust comes out the prop. I noticed a little bit of smoke coming through the prop and thought this was normal or the carbs needed adjusting.

Is there a seal around the prop that might need replacing. I engaged the the prop a few weeks ago and noticed a slight grinding noise but when i pulled the drain screw oil was in it.

Also, if I need to take the prop off any tips? All help would be appreciated.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: 1976 Mercury 115 HP Oil Leak

That oil slick is probably 2 cycle oil and normal. Smell a bit of it on your finger. If it smells like gas and oil it is OK, but you should check for a leak or misadjustment of one of the carbs. Also check the spark plugs for one that is fouled.

If it stinks it is gear oil and your prop shaft seal is likely bad.