76' mercruiser 120hp question

[Darrendude]

I just got this boat as a project boat ($200)Directly behind the prop (about 8 in) there is a small round hole , approx 1/8 in. What is this for and does there need to be a screw or some kind of a plug there? I just changed my outdrive oil and noticed that the gear oil slowly drips out of this hole.<br /><br />This is a fantastic site, thanks in advance<br /><br />120 hp I/O

 

[Darrendude]

Re: 76' mercruiser 120hp question

more info....the hole in question is on the opossite side of the fill/drain hole.

 

[mikbaek0]

Re: 76' mercruiser 120hp question

Darren.<br />Is the hole placed in the same level as the fill/drain hole or lover? Are you sure the other hole is a fill/drain hole and not just a fill-hole? Sounds like the hole in question is the drain-hole, and if so it should most certainly be plugged!<br />-Mikkel.

 

[gspig]

Re: 76' mercruiser 120hp question

If the hole I am thinking of is along the line of the prop shaft near the bulbous part of the lower unit, it is a drain for the water intake. There should not be oil dripping from it.

 

[Darrendude]

Re: 76' mercruiser 120hp question

GSPIG , yes you are correct on the location. I did notice water dripping out of it yesterday before I changed the gear oil. If oil is coming out ( just a very small amout), what does this mean? And how do I proceed on the cheap?<br />Thanks

 

[FreeBeeTony]

Re: 76' mercruiser 120hp question

Check out this web page ............

 

[Darrendude]

Re: 76' mercruiser 120hp question

Thanks Tony...what a great site! What would I be looking atcost wise to have a shop reseal/gasket my entire outdrive? I live in central calif? Is this something I could do myself?<br /><br />Thanks guys

 

[FreeBeeTony]

Re: 76' mercruiser 120hp question

I don't know what it would cost. I did all my own work. First thing you need is a manual unless you already have one. Then I would start with replacing the entire water pump, housing and base. This way you should have all new seals.