Newbie with 57 Evinrude

[57Evie]

Hi all, I bought a boat last month to putz around local lakes. The guy said the motor ran but was touchy. I started reading about it and realized it was a pretty good gem to get working well. My question right now is with the lower unit. I drained it yesterday and got a nice creamy milkshake. I have no idea how fast the thing leaks and read on the duckworks site that one can use lubriplate 105 to keep it going. Is it really that difficult to go through a lower unit, and how long will the lubriplate work for me? Also, Has anyone ever tried a little caulk around the connection between the gear housing and the exhaust shaft? Is there any big reason not to try it? Thanks for any help you can provide.
Tyler.

 

[Chinewalker]

Re: Newbie with 57 Evinrude

Hi Tyler,
That seam between the gear housing and exhaust housing has nothing to do with water getting into the unit. No sealing is needed, nor recommended for that seam.
As for using grease in place of oil, I'm not a fan of that "fix". If you are getting a lot of water intrustion, it's best to fix the problem, rather than trying a band-aid. If you're at all handy, and willing to read up on the procedure, it is neither difficult or expensive to replace the seals in your motor's lower unit. I believe i-boats handles most seal kits for the older Johnrudes, and should have aftermarket manuals that will cover your motor. OEM manuals are best, but the aftermarket ones aren't too bad for basic maintenance stuff.
- Scott