Possible rear main seal leaking ?

[labzman3]

This is my second season with an I/O.. I have a 18 ft. 1985 Starcraft with a mercruiser(chevy)2.5 liter,,with aplha 1 outdrive. While test driving it today,, I noticed a small oil leak, on the starboard side,,coming off the starter body.Do you think the rear main seal is getting old ? I believe I winterized it correctly,, 50/50 mix of antifreeze recirculated thru muffs,,and being the paronoid guy I am,, I even pulled the 2 drain plugs afterwards,,so I'm hoping I didn't let anything crack ? If it is the rear seal,,can I get buy this summer by keeping an eye on the oil level? BTW I usually go 5 miles from shore on Lake Erie,,and sure don't want to end up stranded!Hope you fellows give me some good news,,what a way to start the summer Thanks,, Allan

 

[LubeDude]

Re: Possible rear main seal leaking ?

Seeing that it is on the side of the engine, (starter), I would suspect a valve cover leak.

 

[labzman3]

Re: Possible rear main seal leaking ?

Funny thing is,it just around the flywheel cover & back of starter body. Just a very occassional drip. I did go out and check the oils,, no water in the stern drive or motor oil,, happy bout that!! You are going to chew me out Lubedude, I used Castrol HD 30 weight oil ?? If you fella's that I should put something different or better in it,,let me know,,those things are cheap,, Didn't have this problem last year ???? Hope someone comes up with something,,cause now I'm worried sick !!

 

[LubeDude]

Re: Possible rear main seal leaking ?

I think you are worrying about nothing, Most engines have a small leak or two. No, I wouldnt chew you out, probably nothing at all wrong with the oil you are running. Obviously I would recomend something different, but you are certainly not doing your engine any harm.