Leaking from lower unit

[Keepdry]

I have a Force 125 (1986 Bayliner outboard) with a 1989 powerhead, When I pulled it out of the garage today I found some oil (maybe mixed with some water) under the motor. Upon checking I found that the oil is dripping out of a small hole located just to the front of a bolt in the lower unit. These are the six bolts under the flange that remove the lower unit. Could someone tell me if I have a problen, or if this is normal. Thanks.

 

[Frank Acampora]

Re: Leaking from lower unit

That is a drain hole to drain fluids from a blind cavity. Exhaust and water will collect in that cavity. So, yes, it is normal. However: Smell it. If it smells like gasoline it is definitely normal. If it smells like sulphur, then you may have a leaking seal and you should drop the lower unit to check. Lower unit oil is very distinctive in odor--same as auto rear end oil. If you have never smelled it, open the top vent plug on the lower unit and smell it. Once you smell it, you will never forget it and will not make a mistake as to which oil is dripping out the hole..