small amount of water in lower unit

[dhughes49]

I was getting my boat out of garage so I could put muffs on it and crank up to let it run a little . Before I ran it I drained the lower unit and found about a quarter cup of water in the oil. It will take me a few weeks to get it fixed and I haven't ran the motor in 6 weeks or so . Question is can I crank up the motor with no oil in lower unit if its not in gear. will it hurt any thing and of course I wont put into gear. I just don't wont my carbs to varnish. it a 2002 150hp merc saltwater.

 

[racerone]

Re: small amount of water in lower unit

In nuetral the gears and bearings still spin.-------Not a good idea to run without oil !

 

[Arkyhunter46]

Re: small amount of water in lower unit

I would advise against it. The forward/reverse and pinion gear are constantly moving in neutral and gear lube is the only barrier between them. This is a high friction area that must be lubed while running for any length of time. Do not run it without oil!!

 

[dhughes49]

Re: small amount of water in lower unit

ok thanks

 

[Mi duckdown]

Re: small amount of water in lower unit

That's alot of water of water. need to address that first.

 

[JB]

Re: small amount of water in lower unit

The most common cause of water intrusion is reuse of the gaskets under the plugs. Check them.

 

[dhughes49]

Re: small amount of water in lower unit

The most common cause of water intrusion is reuse of the gaskets under the plugs. Check them.

I put new gaskets on drain screws last time I changed oil . 9 months ago.