OMC Cobra drive seized, now what?

sea wolf

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
Apr 3, 2002
Messages
1,219
Re: OMC Cobra drive seized, now what?

It never hurts to check (I learned that the hard way). If it shows low, you know you have an issue. If it shows full, nothing is lost (or guaranteed).

In order to prevent problems on the water, I suggest you start it on muffs at home and run it at idle speed until the engine warms up. The drive spins anytime the engine is running; the low speed operation should encourage any trapped air bubbles to rise to the top. After warming it up, turn it off and check the level again.
Be sure to tighten the dipstick plug properly after checking to ensure a good seal.

Good Luck!
I would not run it on muffs if you're unsure if it was filled properly. You can bump the engine, that should take care of any air bubbles. Better yet, drain the outdrive & refill it the proper way. Peace of mind.
 

DBreskin

Senior Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Oct 20, 2009
Messages
799
Re: OMC Cobra drive seized, now what?

I would not run it on muffs if you're unsure if it was filled properly. You can bump the engine, that should take care of any air bubbles. Better yet, drain the outdrive & refill it the proper way. Peace of mind.

The official OMC service manual states "When completely changing the lubricant in the vertical drive, the oil level must be checked after the unit has been run and trapped air is purged."
 

sea wolf

Lieutenant Junior Grade
Joined
Apr 3, 2002
Messages
1,219
Re: OMC Cobra drive seized, now what?

I know what the manuel states. But the poster isn't sure whether the drive was filled the proper way or not. He can take a chance hoping the mechanic knew what he was doing. If he didn't, he'll be screwed. That's why I recommended that he change the oil himself to be on the safe side. And I still wouldn't run it until I knew that it was done right.
 
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