2002 115 Hp FICHT Milky Gear Oil

[69 Alumacraft]

So the gear oil was fine at the beginning of last season. I filled it and used new washers. Now it is milky. There is no evidence of a leak, I removed the prop and checked for fishing line. The water pump is about 5 years old but still pumps fine. I am planning to replace the pump, housing and seals that go with the water pump and then give her a try and check the gear oil again after. My question: WHat is the likelyhood that my leak has something to do with the water pump? I am comfortable doing the pump but not going to pull apart the LU and do the internal seals. Also how hard is it to replace the shift shaft seal on these models?

 

[muskrat]

Re: 2002 115 Hp FICHT Milky Gear Oil

Normally its the drive shaft seals,but it should be pressure checked it.If your going to do the w/p do the thermostats too....

 

[69 Alumacraft]

Re: 2002 115 Hp FICHT Milky Gear Oil

I have the therm kits. You give me hope, so your saying it could very well be from old water pump gaskets, orings etc?. I plan to replace the pump and all seals that go with it. If it still leaks I will pull off the LU again and bring it to a shop. The LU has never been abused and is in really good shape, thats why I was surprised to find milk in there especiially since it is an 02.

 

[69 Alumacraft]

Re: 2002 115 Hp FICHT Milky Gear Oil

Anyone else want to chime in?

 

[boobie]

Re: 2002 115 Hp FICHT Milky Gear Oil

Yes. Have it pressure and vacummed checked before you take anything apart. Takes the guess work out of where it's leaking.

 

[Bamaman1]

Re: 2002 115 Hp FICHT Milky Gear Oil

Any way it goes, you'll want to put in all new seals and have a professional mechanic inspect your lower unit to make sure the gears and parts are not ruined.

Seal kits are less than $80, but take about 2 hours' labor. Not cheap. But replacing any bearings and gears are very expensive.

 

[69 Alumacraft]

Re: 2002 115 Hp FICHT Milky Gear Oil

Update: Pulled of the LU and the shift shaft was pretty much frozen. Mech says it is common for shift shaft seals to harden up and make shifting hard. Anyway, dropped it off for a pressure test, seal job.

 

[69 Alumacraft]

Re: 2002 115 Hp FICHT Milky Gear Oil

Update, Mech changed drive and shift shaft seals and pressure tested. Now it is back on motor and seems fine , will sea trial soon.