Metal particles on drain plug

[bj2455]

Im wondering what a normal/acceptable amount of metal contamination is in the lower unit gearcase from a season of use. Got a 1989 Mercruiser Alpha 1 Gen1 coupled to a 5.7L Chevy engine. When I changed the lower unit gear lube for winter layover, there was a small amout of fine metal particles attached to the lower magnetic drain plug. I know those gears take a lot of abuse but anybody have an opinion on what is an acceptable level of wear? Gear lube was clean with no indication of water and the unit pressure tested fine.
Thanks....again

 

[Bronc Rider]

Re: Metal particles on drain plug

What color were the particles? If they were shiny metal ones, its bad. If they were black, not so bad.

 

[bj2455]

Re: Metal particles on drain plug

They were dark colored.....definately noy metal shavings. What is the dark metalic substance then?

 

[z284u2try]

Re: Metal particles on drain plug

If it was the consistency of metal dust I would not worry.

 

[Don S]

Re: Metal particles on drain plug

What is the dark metalic substance then?

Normal wear. That's partially why the magnet is there, to keep the metalic grit out of the oil as much as possible.