Just to give an update, what brought up the question was i had a drop of oil showing on the outdrive on the forward end. First glance said the oil monitor hose was leaking. However, Got an inspection camera and started looking, the line was dry but i could see oil around the shaft.
Did a pressure test and discovered that the seal was leaking so carried it down to the local merc dealer. The main shaft seal was pushed out of the carrier, was told this was a known issue with the merc's Replaced the carrier, the seal, the impeller and filled it up with new lube. Fast service and back on the water. Dealer stated that the "mod" is a new carrier with a hole which is clocked to the forward side so any water will drain out instead of sit and freeze.
George
