Elgin 2 horse air cooled - lower unit weep hole

[twocyclemania]

Just finished getting my 1962 2 horse Elgin air cooled up and running. I notice it has a 'weep' hole in the side of the lower unit at the gear housing area. It's a small un-threaded hole the purpose of which I have no clue. I do know that it's 'weeping' lower unit gear oil. I did have the lower unit apart and there's not much to it since it's direct drive. I cleaned it out and filled it with Lubriplate as recommended by so many as a replacement gear grease. Since there is grease coming out of it I guess it means that water can go into it. Anybody know the purpose of this 'hole,' why it's leaking and what should I do? I really didn't want to open it up again since I just filled it; and when I was working with it I failed to pay any attention to the hole and what corresponded on the inside. Any advice? thanks

 

[1946Zephyr]

Re: Elgin 2 horse air cooled - lower unit weep hole

That is a drain hole for the cavities inside the gear case. You want to make sure those stay clear and water drains freely. If they clog up, water will sit in there and bust open the gear case, the next time it freezes. As far as the oil running out, that is just unburned oil from the crank case and no need to be alarmed.

 

[F_R]

Re: Elgin 2 horse air cooled - lower unit weep hole

twocycle, you seem to be saying that you have identified it as Lubriplate. It probably is emulsified fuel/oil mix and water, which would be normal. However, if it truly is Lubriplate, you must have a considerable seal leak. Personally, I think it is emulsified fuel. But I suggest you run it awhile and see if any water gets into the gearcase.

 

[twocyclemania]

Re: Elgin 2 horse air cooled - lower unit weep hole

Thanks for the replies 1946 Zephyr and F_R. You're right in that it's probably emulsified fuel/oil. I can sleep better now. thanks!