Force 15hp water in lower gear unit

[pecheux]

This outboard motor had not been use much (less than 25 hours) since it was born (1997) and had not been used at all for the past 3 years.bought it freshly tuned. like new mint condition. I know the ex owner.After using it for approx 8 hours both at WOT and trolling, I decided to change the gear oil for my personal curiosity and found a few drops of water to exit followed by the gear oil.Are there any additives that can be added to the gear unit in order to tune the seals ? Or will using it weekly cure the seals ?Tx

[roscoe]

Nothing will cure the seals, but perhaps it is only the gasket on the fill and vent screws.Replace the gaskets and fill it up with lube.Inspect for water intrusion after each of the next 3 outings.

[pecheux]

roscoe ... Tx for the info. Is it possible the seals would dry after 3 years storage ? ANd if so could regular usage cure it ? (I hope ...lol)

[imported_LakeRunner]

Best to replace them, when the seals dry they crack and thats where you get H2O intrusion. Seal kits are inexpensive but you may need to get a seal insertion tool. I don't have my manual in front of me so I can't tell you what the part number is for the tool. Any merc dealer can get you the tool. I see seal kits on eBay all the time!