Possible lower unit oil leak question

[JWFails]

I recently hit a sand bar due to low lake levels and drought. I ruined 3 out of 4 blades on my prop. I trimmed up as soon as I heard it hit. Changed to back up prop and ran the rest of day with no problems. I just got a new prop and was going to put it on when I noticed a little oil on the skeg. It was not enough to leak on ground, however, I could tell it was coming from behind the prop. Should this be enough to warrant a trip to dealer? Does this indicate a bad seal? I checked the lower unit oil and it was not contaminated and was full. I am not a mechanic and would appreciate any suggestions or help. Thanks I have a 2002 190 LS Stingray with a 4.3 L, volvo penta sx I/O. Thanks

 

[Texasmark]

Re: Possible lower unit oil leak question

Keep and eye on it and if the LU oil level drops, the leak becomes serious, or inspection of the lower unit oil indicates water....yellow to chocolate color, then start worrying....but if you stay on top of it, a couple of months of water won't be that bad of a deal if you find it and correct it....that's one of the jobs of the LU lube and that is to glue itself to your metal parts and keep water away. Now if the LU sits unused for 6 mo or so, then sure, water can be a problem.

HTH,

Mark

 

[JWFails]

Re: Possible lower unit oil leak question

Thanks for the quick response. I will keep a watch on oil level. Boat is used monthly until late october. I have a small, 900 acre, power plant lake I use once the temps drop. It's too hot (90 +) to use right now. I have a couple of larger lakes I go to when it's hot, however, all of them are dropping due to drought! Thanks again.