Is it necessary to change lower unit oil every year?

[Mr Mike Musky]

I have a 15hp 4-stroke Evinrude outboard. Is it necessary to change the lower unit oil every year if the motor has less than 3hrs of use on it?

 

[alangf]

Re: Is it necessary to change lower unit oil every year?

I have a 15hp 4-stroke Evinrude outboard. Is it necessary to change the lower unit oil every year if the motor has less than 3hrs of use on it?

If the maintenance schedule calls for it I would do it just for the peace of mind. I would at least make sure the oil was clean and not milky looking. A milky appearance indicates water in the oil. Also, if the engine is new, the first few hours of operation will result in more metallic particles than at any other time of normal operation.

 

[lindy46]

Re: Is it necessary to change lower unit oil every year?

I always change it every Fall - good chance to find out if there is any water getting in, or gear wear, metal filings,etc. Good preventative maintenance.

 

[Kettler]

Re: Is it necessary to change lower unit oil every year?

Do it every year as part of regular maintenace, its easy enough and you'll never know you have a problem down there until it is too late.

 

[tallcanadian]

Re: Is it necessary to change lower unit oil every year?

for the sake of 10 or 15 dollars...great preventive maintenance.

 

[keelboater]

Re: Is it necessary to change lower unit oil every year?

Change the lower unit lube (after each 50 hours of use) at the end of your boating season or in the fall especially if the engine is an older engine and will be stored in an area experience freezing temperatures. A small amount of water which will settle to the bottom of the unit lube will expand when frozen and break an aluminum casting.

If the engine was not used for a few weeks, removing the drain plug with the vent plug in place will allow you to view the quality of the lube that drips out, water will usually exit first.

When refilling, fill from the drain plug hole until lube can be seen exiting out the vent plug hole, replace the vent plug/gasket and then replace the drain plug/gasket.

 

[tmcalavy]

Re: Is it necessary to change lower unit oil every year?

Check and service, as needed each time before you go out and when you get back. Make it part of your "going out" routine.

 

[kenmyfam]

Re: Is it necessary to change lower unit oil every year?

It's a good PM and lets you have a basic evaluation of your lower unit.