Condensation or leak

[James P]

I have a 2001 Mercury 150 XR6. This fall when I was draining my lower unit I noticed it had a small amount of water in it. My question is: Is it possible to get water in the lower unit oil through condensation? I changed it last year and didn't notice the water.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Condensation or leak

do you change the plug seal when you change the lube?

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Condensation or leak

James, The gearcase is supposed to be sealed. Therefore no condensation can occur. You have a small leak. Refill it and make sure you have gaskets on the drain and fill plugs. Run it a bit and check it. If you still have water, it is time to change the waterpump gaskets and seals.

 

[James P]

Re: Condensation or leak

Thanks guys for the help. I did replace the seals just last season. It's been three years since the water pump has been replaced so its time to have that done. Tashasdaddy: Congrats on your championship! You guys should be even better next year! That's not good!

Edit: I just now went out and looked at my engine and noticed a drop of gear oil coming out just forward of the prop. Wouldn't this be a gear seal leak? Would this be a difficult job? I've replaced water pumps in the past and other basic things.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Condensation or leak

Make sure that the drop of oil is indeed gear oil (it should stink). If it is gear oil, remove the prop and confirm the prop seal is leaking. Replacement of the prop seal is a whold nother kind of repair.

 

[James P]

Re: Condensation or leak

Thanks Chris, The oil is definitely gear oil. I understand this repair wouldn't be the same as a water pump change. My last boat was a 40 hp Johnson with electric shift. I'd been inside that thing I don't know how many times changing clutch springs etc. I've been away from boats now for 10 or more years and would rather not get into an involved repair.