Water in gearcase

Thuffjr

Petty Officer 3rd Class
Joined
Feb 23, 2010
Messages
77
How does water get into a alpha one lower unit? Is it through the small o-ring seal or the seal on the uper section? I am asking because i need to replace my lower unit and i know the only seal there is the small o-ring but im not sure if that is where the water was getting in.
 

Don S

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Aug 31, 2004
Messages
62,321
Re: Water in gearcase

How does water get into a alpha one lower unit?
The most common way is for water in the bellows because they were old and not replaced.
After that, it's any seal on the drive.
Pull the outdrive and check for water in the bellows. Then drain the gear lube and pressure/vacuum check the outdrive. With a pressure check, a spray bottle of water with some dishwashing liquid will show the leak by blowing bubbles.
 

bigskiohio

Master Chief Petty Officer
Joined
May 3, 2008
Messages
882
Re: Water in gearcase

i had water in my oil and pressure test showed good ,i am guessing water pump but how would that show up in pressure test? a little water not alot.
 

achris

More fish than mountain goat
Joined
May 19, 2004
Messages
27,468
Re: Water in gearcase

A pressure test only checks to see if oil can get out... A vacuum test is needed to see where water can get in....

Chris.........
 

Bondo

Moderator
Staff member
Joined
Apr 17, 2002
Messages
71,095
Re: Water in gearcase

and i know the only seal there is the small o-ring but im not sure if that is where the water was getting in.

Ayuh,... And the shift shaft seal, 'n the propshaft seal, 'n the drive shaft seals, 'n on, 'n on...
 
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