Lower unit oil has metallic swirls

[CapRedbeard]

Noob question here. I know I have read here about this before but I searched around and couldn’t find this exact topic.

I bought this boat in April. I have been reading tons here and had I known them what I know now, I would have done much more of this maintenance when I first bought the boat instead of waiting til now.

This is the first time I’ve changed the lower unit oil on this boat. It was obviously overdue on it. Question is - should I be concerned with the metal swirl in the oil? Oil level on the dipstick never showed any leakage when checked throughout the summer.

I attached a photo. Don’t worry about the white/yellow flakes - the PB blaster I used to get the screw out.

 

[racerone]

Well-----What motor is this ?

 

[CapRedbeard]

Well-----What motor is this ?

Wasn’t sure if that info was relevant.
VP 3.0GSPEFS
VP SX-M outdrive

 

[Horigan]

It looks old, but nothing terrifying. Just be sure to use Volvo Syn 75W-90 oil when you refill it.

 

[CapRedbeard]

It looks old, but nothing terrifying. Just be sure to use Volvo Syn 75W-90 oil when you refill it.

Thanks for easing my mind. FWIW, there were no metal shavings stuck to the drain plug magnet.

 

[Horigan]

Yep. Figured if there were shavings you would have mentioned it.

 

[crazy charlie]

Thanks for easing my mind. FWIW, there were no metal shavings stuck to the drain plug magnet.

Make sure your "magnetic" drain plug is actually magnetic.There are usually at minimum a slight amount on the tip.Charlie