Lower unit leaking?

[Cricket Too]

I have a 1983 Johnson 70hp. I have recently noticed that after I get home and flush the motor out, about an hour or so after doing so, there is thick black oil leaking down from behind the prop. It leaks all the way down the skeg and puddles up on the ground. When I smell it, it obviously smells like exhaust, but it also smells a little like gear oil. Is it possible for the lower unit gear oil to come out of here through a seal or is this just maybe an excess of 2 stroke oil leaking down after running it. Thanks.

 

[ob]

Re: Lower unit leaking?

Could be either or both.Drain the lower unit and inspect the condition of the oil.Old used gear lube will appear black in color.If it is water intruded it will also have a milky appearance.Remove the prop and you should be able to tell whether gear oil is weeping from the propshaft seal or carrier "o"ring.Post back with gear oil inspection results.