Lower unit not full, bad?

[NijkampTO]

I just drained the gear oil in my lower unit and there was nearly no oil in the lower unit(suspecting previous owner didn't fill it up). The boat only ran for 10 minutes this year because the pulse pack went bad on it, so I'm thinking the LU is still ok for now.

However, I didn't have enough oil to fill it all the way up. It holds 37oz and I put in 32oz. I heard it's not good to have air in it, but can I run the boat this weekend without doing too much damage? All the Johnson dealers are closed till Tuesday and they're the only ones selling Electric Shift gear oil.

Thanks!

 

[jimdd810]

Re: Lower unit not full, bad?

I dont think you should run it unless full. I fill gearcases up this way: I pull both plugs then I pump gearcase fluid in untill it comes out the top hole. Then i put the top screw in and pump one more pump in. You dont want the gearcase oil turning to froth. Are you sure you dont have a gearcase leak. I would double make sure the water isnt a good place to break down.

 

[boobie]

Re: Lower unit not full, bad?

I also would top it off with something. How about West Marine or Walmart ? The worst that could happen is your upper drive shaft bearing could fail if it's not topped off properly. It's your decision.