Lower unit Oil Particles?

[iamthunderman]

I am checking out a boat that I might purchase, I popped the lower unit plus and let some of the oil drain into a cup. There are very small particles in it, and a few other ones that are a tiny bit bigger. We tried to put the particles on a magnet but they did not stick. I am taking the oil sample to a marina to have them check it out. What does the forum think? Are these particles normal? Should I be concerned?

 

[IVAZ]

Re: Lower unit Oil Particles?

If the particles are black, its normal.
If the particles are shiny, its bad news.
What color are the ones you saw?

 

[iamthunderman]

Re: Lower unit Oil Particles?

They are all black

 

[IVAZ]

Re: Lower unit Oil Particles?

It does not sound so bad. Its kind of weird they werent stuck to the magnet though.

 

[captkevin]

Re: Lower unit Oil Particles?

I'd have a mechanic check it out before making an offer

 

[IVAZ]

Re: Lower unit Oil Particles?

I'd have a mechanic check it out before making an offer

Yep, always a good idea.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Lower unit Oil Particles?

I popped the lower unit plus and let some of the oil drain

Ayuh,... Just What is this lower unit,..?? Vintage,+ Make,..??

 

[Evinrude Boater]

Re: Lower unit Oil Particles?

Pieces of a seal? Use a 20x eye glass and have a closer look at their shape. Round, flat, jagged, smooth etc.