Lower gearcase

[ohiofunlovers]

Another newbie question.

How would I check the oil in the lower gearcase?? Its a 1990 Evinrude 60 hp. Kinda sounds like it might be low. Just making a growling noise. Might be nothing just want to be sure. Make it a simple explaination as I don't know alot about them but willing and able to learn. Do not have a manual.

TIA

 

[JB]

Re: Lower gearcase

There are two plugs with straight screwdriver slots on the starboard side, OFL. The one above the propshaft bulge is a VENT plug and the one below is the DRAIN plug. There is also a Phillips type screw that must be left alone.

First go to your marine store and get replacement gaskets (and a few spares)for the plugs and a tube or jug of gearcase lube.

Remove the drain plug. Does any water drain out? No? That's good. Now loosen the vent plug, let a bit of grease out. Is the grease milky or evenly dark? Dark? Good.

Now, attach the tube or jug of new grease to the drain hole and remove the vent plug. Pump some grease in until it spills out of the vent hole. Now it is full.

If you got water or milky grease drain it all out and replace it. Put fresh gaskets under the plugs and reinsert them, vent plug first.

Recheck the grease after an outing if there was a problem with water or milky grease. If the problem was caused by bad plug gaskets it will be okay. If it has water or is milky again you have bad gearcase grease seals. Get a manual and reseal the gearcase.