Tohatsu ultra long shaft has holes-- why?

[newsailor130]

I have a 2010 Tohatsu 6hp ultra long shaft (MFS6BS) for my sailboat. Only this model has two rubber plugs in two holes in the shaft, one on each side, at the level of the anode. They are just holes that can let in daylight or water. Why are they here? Seems like suicide to have potential water leak into the case. WTF? Why are they here and any tips for permanently sealing them or not? Parts catalog diagram 8-53. Part no. 3DK-61016-0. Maybe Tohatsu guru or one of you other experts can help me out here? I can't seem to upload photos, but have if you PM me.
JIM

 

[newsailor130]

 

[GA_Boater]

That area is filled with water when running, not oil. Nothing to worry about.

 

[pvanv]

First, year for the EPA sticker is irrelevant. For servicing purposes, you have an MFS6UL (ultra long, probably a SailPro-- which used the elephant ear propeller). Not S, which would be short. The MFS6B was in production from about 2005 to 2010, and all are identical. I have serviced hundreds of them. Good motors.

Next, on the UL motors, Tohatsu added a rubber flushing plug some time after 2005, which allows you to inject garden hose water for flushing.

There is no reason to remove the rubber grommet unless flushing. You certainly (especially after 9 years of use) have no reason to block them off.

 

[newsailor130]

Thanks guys.