Prop shaft goop?!

[renegade15]

I think I already know what needs to be done, but wanted to throw it out there to make sure. Went to clean the boat up sunday morning and beneath the skeg I find this little circle of goop. I'm pretty sure it is my lower unit lube seeping out around the prop shaft, but just wanted to check. This is a new to me 1988 60hp that was freshwater used, but I believe not used much in recent years. I checked the lower unit fluid when I bought it and was water free, but not brand new either so I had hoped new fluid and we'd be in business.

 

[Joe Reeves]

Re: Prop shaft goop?!

That does look like fairly well used gearlube, check the actual gearlube within the unit and compare. If it were excess fuel/oil mixture draining down thru the long exhaust housing, it would be black in color.

(Checking Gearcase For Leaks)
(J.Reeves)

Remove the large slotted drain/fill screw from the bottom of the gearcase and also the identical looking screw that will be located up near the cavitation plate in order to drain the gearlube.

After all of the lubricant has drained, install one of the slotted screws, whichever your preference might be.

Apply 7 to 12 pounds of air pressure to the open screw hole. Use a piece of rubber fuel line or something to create a tight air hose fit if you do not have a proper fitting.

If a leak exists, that pressure should allow you to locate the leak by sound and/or sight.