alpha 1 lower unit leak?

[2000chap]

I bought a 2000 chaparral 180sse last year with 220 hrs on it. The impeller and thermostat were original. When running the boat wide open the thermostat cycled fine and when you backed it off the temp. stayed constant. I did all the research and learned how to replace the impeller so we took off the foot and everything went as planned.

When we got done we noticed some gear oil had dripped down on the rear of the trailer. I had an air pocket in the lower unit where some oil drained out so last week i drained the foot, poured out the resevoir, and pumped new gear oil into the unit to push out all the air.

Yesterday find the same oil leak. It appears to be high on the lower unit but I can't see where it's coming from. Did I just pull a hose loose or what? The guide tube lined up nice when it went back together. Leaking out onto the lower anode and area around the bellows is oily. The outside of the lower unit is dry.

Any ideas? I ran it 3 times at the end of the season last year and no leaks so I have done something.
Thanks, Charlie

 

[Eric 3.7LX Alpha 1]

Re: alpha 1 lower unit leak?

That link shows a kit for Alpha One, but wouldn't his be a Gen 2 if the year is 2000?

If the leak only appeared after the impeller was changed, it must be from a gasket or seal that was involved/disturbed in separating the drive, or the impeller swap.

My guess is quad seal O-ring or seal at the bottom of the upper.

 

[2000chap]

Re: alpha 1 lower unit leak?

Thanks, I just couldn't figure out how the fluid was leaking from above the bottom part of the lower unit. I didn't replace the seals so that's a start. I'll wipe it all off tomorrow and try to see where the oil is coming from.

Charlie

 

[Don S]

Re: alpha 1 lower unit leak?

Before you start fixing things, drain the gear lube and pressure test the drive. Spray soapy water on everything, the leak will cause the soap to blow bubbles.