Lower unit oil smells burnt!

[ksubigbuck]

I just drained the lower unit oil from my '98 Johnson 9.9...and the oil smells burnt (no water in it). I am guessing this isn't a good thing. What could cause this, and is it a problem? I just inherited this motor, and it is possible that the oil hasn't been changed in a long time.

Thanks for the help,
Hunter

 

[HighTrim]

Re: Lower unit oil smells burnt!

how long was it since you ran it?

 

[ksubigbuck]

Re: Lower unit oil smells burnt!

2 days.

 

[ezeke]

Re: Lower unit oil smells burnt!

All kinds of lubricants wear out, including brake fluid. In the case of gear oil that smells burned, or has turned black, it is just worn out.

While it is unlikely that any significant damage has been done, the concern should be that it is an indication of lack of preventative maintenance. BRP/ Evinrude has a maintenance shedule to help guide you:

http://www.evinrude.com/en-US/About.Us/FAQ/Maintenance.htm

As you will see from the schedule, replace every 100 operating hours at least.​

 

[ksubigbuck]

Re: Lower unit oil smells burnt!

It is probably worn out then, because it is as black as coal. I just changed it, and will change it again in 25 operating hours. Hopefully nothing has been damaged.

Thanks for the help guys,
Hunter

 

[HighTrim]

Re: Lower unit oil smells burnt!

maybe wait for someone more experienced than myself, but its probably just burn out, or a cheap fluid. If its not milky, it should be ok. Just try replacing it with a quality fluid reccommended for you motor. Hope that helps and gl.

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: Lower unit oil smells burnt!

It is probably worn out then, because it is as black as coal. I just changed it, and will change it again in 25 operating hours. Hopefully nothing has been damaged.

Thanks for the help guys,
Hunter

Great Idea.

 

[CATransplant]

Re: Lower unit oil smells burnt!

Nobody mentioned it, but that gear oil has a distinct smell, even when new and fresh. I can see how someone who didn't know that might think something was wrong.

 

[Fl_Richard]

Re: Lower unit oil smells burnt!

Distinct smell. Thats a huge understatement. It plain stinks going in and coming out. I change my foot oil yearly with the Johnson 80 weight super whatever. After 120 hrs or so per year mines ALWAYS black and disgusting.

Smells the whole garage up. If it ain't Grey it's OK