oil leaking

[stratosjoe]

I have a 1971 20 hp Johnson that is leaking lower unit oil. The oil appears to come from the area between the back of the prop and the lower unit. Not a mechanic but due to finances I am gonna have to be one ,,,any suggestions really appreciated .

 

[Lion hunter]

Re: oil leaking

Likely the prop shaft seal.

 

[Fisherball]

Re: oil leaking

What color is the oil? If it's dark & brown it's just unburned 2 cycle oil from the exhaust. If it's thick than it's probably LU gear oil & you'll prop shaft seal like lion hunter says.

 

[stratosjoe]

Re: oil leaking

prop shaft seal it has not been in the water and oil is fresh.. do I need to drop the foot to fix or can i get too by taking off the prop? sorry for being so stupid but stupid is and stupid does. thanks Joe

 

[Fisherball]

Re: oil leaking

That can be replaced with LU still attached to motor. Pull the prop & follow the instructions in the manual you'll have to buy to do this without screwing up your motor! If it's like the 70 hp I own you'll also need a snap ring tool that can be real expensive. I bought one at Harbor Freight & had to mickey mouse it to use it on both rings. Set it one way for the top one & another for the bottom one.

 

[stratosjoe]

Re: oil leaking

Thanks fisher I will give it a try

 

[stratosjoe]

Re: oil leaking

looking at the foot it has 4 screws i think (corrosion) and the foot splits apart do I have to do that?