Exhaust smoke leaking around outside of lower unit on 88 Force 125

[Bry21317]

I seem to have smoke coming out of the lower unit. It seems to be coming out on the transom side,just above the cavitation plate. There is an opening in this location, that has the shift lever showing from it, looks like a L.Does anyone have any ideas on what gasket may be leaking? It seems to run fine, since it is not leaking into the cowling, so the carbs aren't getting bogged down due to the smoke.Thanks,Bryan Cox

[12Footer]

I am not sure, here.But I am thinking this is normal..Most of the engine exuast exits the engine from the lower unit. It would also leak a bit of exaust around any and all openings, as there is no real "exaust pipe" (per-say).Not being able to see it, I have a mental picture of what you are talking about, but then, I'm mental anyhoo. It does sound normal for some gasses to come out of every opening in the foot.

[oldboat1]

I think 12-footer is on the right track, but I'll also repeat his uncertainty. I'm also not familiar with the engine. You have a lot of exhaust gases and water flying around in the housing, and it seems likely that you would see some escaping if there is any opening. You may be able to find screw or nut that needs snugging, and that will take care of the problem. On older Evinrudes, there was a cover over the joint for the shift connector shaft, held in place by a couple of screws. Is there an arrangement similar to that -- perhaps with the cover missing?