Vacuum testing Mercruiser Alpha One Gen I?

[cptnmcluvin]

My 1987 Mercruiser Alpha Gen I is leaking water. The drive pressure tests successfully and holds 18 PSI for over 24 hours. Some folks have said I need to vacuum test it. I know vacuum testing applies to OMC but, I read a post from Barnacle Bills Marine service that says:

"MerCruisers do not use a vacuum test. There yoke seal is not a back to back seal so it will not hold vacuum"

Is this true? It make sense b/c I've read that if water gets in the Alpha One's bellows it will then leak into the outdrive.

Whose done a vacuum test on their Mercruiser Alpha one? What were your results?

Thanks, John
Richmond, VA

 

[Alpheus]

Re: Vacuum testing Mercruiser Alpha One Gen I?

After you put pressure on the outdrive did you spin the shaft?

As far as leaking water. Are you saying that your outdrive is filling with water ie milky gear oil???

 

[cptnmcluvin]

Re: Vacuum testing Mercruiser Alpha One Gen I?

I did not spin the shaft. I will try that.