Bravo 3, Gear lube leak

[xewolf]

I have a '93 Formula 252, 454 with a Bravo 3.

I have noticed that during the last couple of seasons a slight consumption of gear lube (from the clear reservoir behind the engine) but maybe a 1/2"-1". This weekend I noticed that the level dropped 2-3" after about 10hrs and gear lube is in the bilge. Obvisously an leak. I am looking for suggestions for typical leaks for this. Any response/posts are appreciated.

 

[rbh]

Re: Bravo 3, Gear lube leak

cap tight? check the hoses and clamps for tightness.
is there any cracks in the reservoir?
rob

 

[xewolf]

Re: Bravo 3, Gear lube leak

Cap is tight, no visible cracks.

Did not have time to check hoses. Are these lines under pressure, or gravity feed to the sterndrive?

Thanks

 

[Zackman]

Re: Bravo 3, Gear lube leak

Gravity feed.​

They tend to leak at the barded connection on the reservior or the gimbal housing. Examination of the connection on the gimbal housing can be a real PITA and reparing it is even worse.​

If you have gear oil in the bilge, you have a leak. The only way to find it is to get in there with a good flashlight and inspection mirror and start looking for the trail of gear lube.​

 

[Zackman]

Re: Bravo 3, Gear lube leak

I'm attaching the exploded view of the gimbal housing from a bravo drive of your vintage. The thru hull fitting #12 is the path for the gear oil to travel to the drive from the reservior. #8 is the part that often breaks or leaks.​

 

[xewolf]

Re: Bravo 3, Gear lube leak

OK- thanks.

Gravity feed makes sense but it seamed to leak it more when running (judging by the loss over the weekend compared to the loss when sitting for 2 weeks). Sounds like a parts/service manual is in my future.

 

[HT32BSX115]

Re: Bravo 3, Gear lube leak

Howdy,

Click the following for a manual...

http://www.boatfix.com/merc/Servmanl/11/11covr5x.pdf


Cheers,

Rick

 

[xewolf]

Re: Bravo 3, Gear lube leak

OK Cool

I'll get a full manual and order parts.

Thanks