Thick "Chocolate Milk" in Bottom of Drive Unit Reservoir

[timfromfc]

I have a merc 5.0 w/an Alpha One outdrive. I just drained the outdrive and noticed that the bottom of the reservoir has a layer of what looks like thick chocolate milk. The gear lube that came out of the drain looked like used motor oil and didn't appear to have any water in it. I did some searching and it sounds like it is caused by a leak somewhere, but I don't know where or how to fix it. Also, if this is expensive, can it wait until spring if the boat is done for the season?

 

[Don S]

Re: Thick "Chocolate Milk" in Bottom of Drive Unit Reservoir

"Chocolate Milk" is caused by water, the longer it stays in the drive the worse it gets. Have you checked the price of a new drive.<br />The first thing to do is pull the drive. A leak in the bellows will cause water in the bellows, and the drive. If it's dry, it's time to drain the drive and do a pressure and vacuum check of the drive itself.<br />What year drive do you have?<br /><br /> http://www.mercstuff.com/howdoi.htm

 

[timfromfc]

Re: Thick "Chocolate Milk" in Bottom of Drive Unit Reservoir

It's a 95. BTW, great website!