Water in the lower unit.

[hz]

I have a 1969 Reinell 22' with 360 OMC stringer and electric outdrive. I've had it a short time. I went to change the outdrive oil and on the older OMC electric units there are two places to fill with type C lube. The drained oil from the top which holds 17 oz looked fine and I refilled it. The lower unit which takes 33oz was milky. It looked like they had used flat plastic washers rather than the O rings that are typically used. Is it possible that water got in there or where are the other places that water can intrude? Suggestions are appreciated on how to proceed.

Harris

 

[Howard Sterndrive]

Re: Water in the lower unit.

flat nylon washers are proper - orings are not.

most common water entry point of a lower is propshaft seal - monofilament fishing line likes to wreck that seal.
The other place is the vertical driveshaft where it enters through a similar lip type seal.
You can pressure test the lower, or just buy a lower unit seal kit and renew all.

 

[Lyle29464]

Re: Water in the lower unit.

The washers might be the problem but I would look at the seal infront of the prop first. fishing line can damage this one. you might even see oil on the shaft. If your going to work on your own stuff I would get a tester for lower units and just follow the instrutcions. Do a search on this site for more info.
I would not put much money in that drive.