lower unit oil capacity, leaks, etc.

[bookryan]

Ok. I'm new to outboards. I bought an old '71 Merc 650 on the cheap and went to change the lube in the lower and only got about half a quart out. Yes, it was milky. I don't have a pump to refill it yet, but shouldn't I be getting more out? I've done all kinds of searches and can't seem to locate a set of seals. So...if I don't want to put a lot into this motor, can I just keep topping off the oil each month and make sure to replace it each year?

 

[BAYLINER185]

Re: lower unit oil capacity, leaks, etc.

Well if you really did get your motor cheep then it wont be a big loss if it finally does drop dead from too much water in the gears.

I used to have a lower unit always drail it full capicty then some and it came out milky. I had that boat a few years and it didnt seem to get any worse BUT I now know that there was water entering the lower unit and if I would have known that then I think I would have replaced the seals.

I dont recomend you keep goign with your situation but if you can keep it full of oil you may be able to get away with it for a while.

I would assume there has to be a way to track down seals for an older motor.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: lower unit oil capacity, leaks, etc.

Ryan, The seals for theat LU are readily available. However, the prop shaft seal is hard to install. You likely need a waterpump impeller anyway, so I recommend you buy a waterpump repair kit with a waterpump base included. when you install the new waterpump base, with its included seals and gaskets(and fill and drain screw gaskets), you will have replaced all but two seals. The good news is that the two seals you haven't replaced, do not fail nearly as often as the ones you did replace.


BTW, it is not unusual for less gear lube to drain out, than was originally filled. It should not have a milky look to it, of course.

You probably should pick up a service manual, since you will need it eventually.

 

[bookryan]

Re: lower unit oil capacity, leaks, etc.

Thanks Chris. I'll take your advice.