Do I have an oil leak?

[STeveZ]

The specifics: 1968 9.5 Johnson. Two years ago I had this motor in for a complete tune up including new seals. The mechanic commented that it was a great motor and in great condition. While in storage on it's side in my (cold) garage I notices some oil leakage (I think from around the prop). <br /><br />Today, I ran this engine for the first time since it's tune-up. It started on the third pull and runs great, but I got milky oil globules on the surface of the test tank and darker oil around the water line of the tank. Also, after removing the LU from the tank milky grease slowly leak from the exhaust port and the small hole above the prop.<br /><br />My dad said his old Johnson expelled grease like this and I seem to remember that it did. I plan to sell this motor w/ a 14' boat and want to be sure I'm not passing off a serious problem to someone.

 

[DJ]

Re: Do I have an oil leak?

Steve,<br /><br />Exhaust oil residue CAN look like that.<br /><br />However, there is only one other source of oil. It is the lower unit.<br /><br />Check the lower unit for water intrusion.<br /><br />After the engine has sat upright, overnight. Crack open the bottom drain plug on the lower unit. If there is water, it will come out first. Or, the oil coming out will be milky (water).<br /><br />If you have water in the L/U. I would replace the the fill and drain plug screw seals first, refill, and retest.