OMC V6 gearcase assembly question

[metriccrescentwrench]

The older V6 gearcase (with the snap rings) has a retainer plate which the propshaft bearing housing bolts to. The retainer plate has 4 threaded holes, plus a 5th hole - does it matter if that 5th hole is up, down, or to the side?
(Also, if anyone knows, what's that 5th hole for?)

 

[Haffiman]

Re: OMC V6 gearcase assembly question

Down.
For oil-circulation.

 

[metriccrescentwrench]

Re: OMC V6 gearcase assembly question

Thanks. I'm usually good about taking notes or digital photos so I know how stuff goes back together, but this one just slipped under my radar. The shop manual doesn't say anything about it either.