Re: Merc 470, oil forced out at oil filter. Need a Guru.
I paid to speak to a local Merc technician today. He suggested the oil viscosity increases dramatically when mixed with water/coolant and it was possible the high viscosity was causing the seal to pop out of place.
SOLUTION??? There IS a plug (1/8" pipe thread) on the side of the engine near the rear of the oil gallery (easy to get to). We back flushed to the oil filter area. Found no contamination (Yea!). Added about 50% fuel oil to the oil and started the motor. Blew out the oil filter seal again! (OH No!). I reseated the seal and really tightened the oil filter down, then restarted the motor and the seal held. We flushed the lubrication system 2x using 50/50 fuel oil and new oil. Then finally replaced the oil filter and added all new oil. Works fine, running 60-80 psi oil pressure.
At this point I would have to agree, the "thick" lubricant (water mixed into the oil) was likely my problem. The Merc mechanic (Randy of Reeds Marine - Delavan, WI) also indicated the most common places where water/coolant can enter the engine. 1. where the coolant reservoir attaches. 2. the exhaust riser 3. The camshaft/coolant impeller seals (2).
I want to thank you all for your input and help, you have been a blessing!
Thanks again! Steve
