3.0 OMC Pushrod Cover leak

[Deltat911]

Hello, I just purchased an 1987 4 Winns 17 foot bowrider with the 3.0 engine that was replaced last year. Took the boat out and it ran fine, took it out the next week, and ran lousy, so Im doing a tune up on it, however, when I was limping back to the ramp, I saw a small water leak coming from the rear top of the pushrod cover. When I first looked at the boat, I saw that the cast iron on the block had surface rust near the stern. This water is not oily and neither is the block where the water runs. Its not a huge leak, but I dont know what is behind there that would cause this, and can't find any other posts regarding this problem. Any ideas? I'm horrified that the block is cracked, and Ive had it for 2 weeks, anyways, thanks in advance!

 

[calwldlif]

Re: 3.0 OMC Pushrod Cover leak

I am confused by your discription.<br />Valve cover? Top of motor?<br />Side of motor lifter cover?<br />Is your exhaust mani on that side?<br />if so I would think gasket/crack mani<br />Runs lousy? How?<br />Have you checked the motor for water in<br />places it shouldn't be?<br />What have you found?<br />I know people here will try their best to help

 

[Bt Doctur]

Re: 3.0 OMC Pushrod Cover leak

If its where i think you mean,it sounds like a head gasket leak caused from an overheat.is it a telltale drip or more.<br />common to the gm 6s and 4s after running a bit hot. oil, temp, compression will all be normal with this type of drip.its an external type leak that should be repaired.

 

[Deltat911]

Re: 3.0 OMC Pushrod Cover leak

I"ll try and get a picture of the problem, if I can figure out the deal here. Anyways, I checked the oil, and its good, no infiltration of water, as of yet. At the very least, there's no water in the oil that I know of. Have to do the timing, tune up thing, and get it up to par to show, and thanks for the great response to the post!!!

 

[Mile-High Mariner]

Re: 3.0 OMC Pushrod Cover leak

Delta - if it's just a little bit of oil coming from around the gasket on the pushrod/lifter cover, you can replace the gasket (try to find a rubberized one, but the original cork is okay) and be on your way. There are only four bolts that hold that cover on, so it's an easy swap.