Johnson Lower Unit

[tmann05]

Two weeks ago I posted a message about a possible oil leak in my lower unit. I removed the LU and found oil deposits around the left side of the water pump. No oil seen in the Pump housing. Lots of oil deposits in the exhaust shaft out port. LU is functioning fine, and the oil drained did not have signs of water in it. The problem developed on dry dock. I plan to have it bench tested for pressure, but want to know if it just might require a new seal. I've seen seal kits available for LUs. Thanks.

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: Johnson Lower Unit

What year and HP?

 

[ob]

Re: Johnson Lower Unit

Sounds like two cycle oil and carbon deposits from exhaust boot leaking .Did you change exhaust gasket when you serviced waterpump?

 

[tmann05]

Re: Johnson Lower Unit

It's an '88 88HP SPL v4 2-stroke. I'm relatively sure it's not 2-cycle oil depoists. The exhaust port in the LU was creamed up pretty well and the cream has a thick viscosity. Looking up the 'neck' of the shaft into the exhaust channel the oil film only went up an inch or two. The oil 'cream' had the greenish tint to it like that of the LU gear oil.

 

[ob]

Re: Johnson Lower Unit

Unless lower unit was overfilled or serviced with improper lube that allowed it to foam generally any seal leak at driveshaft or shift rod that would allow oil escape would also leak water into lower unit when operated.since you mentioned there were no signs of water in lower unit I ruled seals out as needing replacement. PS what lowerunit oil are you using in your motor that is green?I believe your motor calls for OMC hi-vis or equivelant.Generally amber colored .

 

[mrivera77524]

Re: Johnson Lower Unit

I have a 1983 johnson 115.

When i winterized it at the end of lasat summer my boat mechanic told me that "i had a little water in the lower unit and i needed a seal to be replaced."

are there more than 1 seals that could be the problem?
is this an easy task?
Where can i find more information?