83 70hp Johnson Seahorse oil leak at prop

[alchik]

Hi,

I've noticed a small oil leak coming out of the center of the prop. I recently acquired this motor/boat so haven't changed the lower units oil. Could it just be oil that's worn out and needs changing or something more (Gaskets and etc...)?

TIA...

 

[Gary H NC]

Re: 83 70hp Johnson Seahorse oil leak at prop

Most likely its the prop shaft seal.Are you sure its not 2 cycle oil?
Drain the lower and check for signs of water..

 

[mikesea]

Re: 83 70hp Johnson Seahorse oil leak at prop

what color is the oil,if its black,you probably see the residual carbon and exhust,that would b normal,if its clean like new auto oil,it is likely the prop shaft seal,on the lower unit on the bottom there is a screw with a big slotted head,there is an identical looking one higher up on the unit both on the starboard side,you can take the bottom one out and catch a bit of the oil in a jar,look to see if its milky,that could indicate water intrusion,if the water intrusion is bad,you will likely see water fall out the hole first,if there is water you need to have the lower pressure checked to locate the leak,there are a few seals that could be the problem,but if you see oil coming from the propshaft seal,thats it,let us know color ,has eng ran latly