LU Gear Lube Leak

ronnieb09

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Feb 27, 2009
Messages
41
Engine is an 03 Johnson 25HP, 2 stroke. Last fall I changed the LU lube and did not observe any water or anything abnormal. Boat was stored for the winter and ran the motor once for about 30 minutes a few months ago to cycle in some fresh fuel. However today I noticed a small amount of gear lube around the shift rod, a few drops that appeared to come from the lower shift rod seal. I drained the unit into a clear container, did not see any water, fluid looked good. Pressure tested in a test tank at 18psi, did not see any leaks other than a bubble or two from the shift rod while shifting to reverse. Once in reverse, no bubbles, and drive and neutral looked good.

Anyone seen lube leak from the shift rod seal like this, I'm wondering if this warrants a seal replacement, or if it's just a freak occurance. Thanks.
 

wilde1j

Vice Admiral
Joined
Apr 15, 2002
Messages
5,964
Re: LU Gear Lube Leak

18 psig is a little high ... I would limit pressure to 15 psig max. How long did the LU retain some pressure? You drained the gear oil for the pressure test, right? 20 to 30 minutes with some pressure is fine. Sounds like the seals are likely OK.
 

ronnieb09

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Feb 27, 2009
Messages
41
Re: LU Gear Lube Leak

The manual specified 16-18psi pressure test, but in the future I'll keep 15psi in mind. I did drain all the lube before pressure test. I'll fill it back up with lube and keep an eye on it. I hate to tear into the LU this close to the season, but I'll pick up a seal kit just in case. Thanks.
 

234rick

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Dec 13, 2009
Messages
75
Re: LU Gear Lube Leak

What did you use to check the pressure? I need to test my LU but I can't find a gauge to make one out of. I have several different air sources and a pump fitting but no gauge.
 

wilde1j

Vice Admiral
Joined
Apr 15, 2002
Messages
5,964
Re: LU Gear Lube Leak

I'm surprised ... the V-4's call for a max of 15 psig (hjgher risks blowing out seals). I stand corrected.
 
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