15hp Merc Blue oil leak

[QUACK ATTACK]

I just returned from duck Hunting and noticed blue oil dripping from the bottom of the engine cover after removing the cover it was all over the place. It looks like its leaking from under the (well I think its called the fly wheel where the pull start is) its on both sides and I could not tell exactly were its coming from. Has anyone had this issue or do you know if there is a seal up top that would let oil out? I'm new to the outboard world. It runs great just leaks. The dealer seems to think it was oil from the fuel. I mixed the moring I went out 50:1 any help would be great Thanks

 

[WillyBWright]

Re: 15hp Merc Blue oil leak

Well it sure isn't gearlube way up there. There might be a recirculation hose that has broken and it's coming from there, a bad crankshaft seal, a leak in the crankcase. If I knew the year or serial number, I could be more specific.

 

[QUACK ATTACK]

Re: 15hp Merc Blue oil leak

The serial # is 0D016776 I think its late 80's or early 90 any help would be great

 

[WillyBWright]

Re: 15hp Merc Blue oil leak

I'll go out on a limb and predict a cracked bleed hose (recirculation hose) under the flywheel. The other possibilities I mentioned are still possibilities, but the bleed hose possibility is the most likely and cheapest to fix.

 

[QUACK ATTACK]

Re: 15hp Merc Blue oil leak

Ok I know this is a silly question but I have not a clue this is the first time ever working on an outboard motor

What does this bleed tube do is it for fuel or for oil?

Is it a part that needs to be ordered or is it something I can fix with rubber hose.

Thank You Jeff