Volvo Penta SX Drive Metal Particles In Oil

[alandis]

I recently bought a 2001 Four Winns w/ Volvo Penta 4.3GL w/ SX outdrive

I changed the oil in the outdrive and both middle screw and lower had a paste of metal (no chunks), I understand this is somewhat normal. Also the boat only has 106 hours on it. The oil itself was black and had a silvery metal to it, if I stirred the oil it turned silver. Am I expecting serious problems. This is my first real boat and I guess possibly my first real learning lesson. Motor and outdrive sound great thought.

I've changed the outdrive oil and flushed a quart threw it. I plan on running it for a few hours and changing the oil again to make sure I've gotten most of the particulates out. Then I'll inspect the oil during winterization and determine if it needs to go to the dealer for repair. I don't plan on using it a whole lot this season and if I do, it will be for fishing anyway.

Alan

 

[alandis]

Re: Volvo Penta SX Drive Metal Particles In Oil

BTW, I am new to the site and somewhat new to boating.
Thanks in advance.

 

[Don S]

Re: Volvo Penta SX Drive Metal Particles In Oil

That black paste is normal, and what the magnet is there for. Shiny slivers or chunks of metal are problems.

 

[alandis]

Re: Volvo Penta SX Drive Metal Particles In Oil

That black paste is normal, and what the magnet is there for. Shiny slivers or chunks of metal are problems.

The dipstick barely registered oil when I checked it before the oil change. I'm guessing this is the cause. I'll keep an eye on the next oil change for metal. UGH

Thanks, Don

 

[Don S]

Re: Volvo Penta SX Drive Metal Particles In Oil

If the oil is anywhere on the dipstick below the line, the oil level is OK, I usually keep them in the upper 1/4" to the full mark.

 

[alandis]

Re: Volvo Penta SX Drive Metal Particles In Oil

If the oil is anywhere on the dipstick below the line, the oil level is OK, I usually keep them in the upper 1/4" to the full mark.

Oil level was 1/4"

100 hours is barely broke in. I asked the owner about it and he mentioned the last oil change was done and the dealer didn't mention any problems. He also mentioned it has been sitting for about five years

 

[alandis]

Re: Volvo Penta SX Drive Metal Particles In Oil

Update

Took the boat out today..finally. Wyoming wind

Runs great, only ran for maybe an hour. Kept my foot out of it for the most part

Goes into forward harder than reverse, double the clunking noise

Did notice the motor idols at 800rpm. Seems high

So I'll run her for another trip out and change the oil and inspect

 

[alandis]

Re: Volvo Penta SX Drive Metal Particles In Oil

Quick ?

What is the correct idle for the 4.3GL SN#4012036857 I've looked at the manual and it only states in gear idle.

Mine is idling at 800-900 in neutral.

Thanks
Alan

 

[Don S]

Re: Volvo Penta SX Drive Metal Particles In Oil

Your Idle RPM should be 550 – 650 RPM in forward gear in the water. Usually neutral idle is around 700 maybe a little less. Set it there and see what happens, adjust if necessary when you put it in the water. 8-900 is way to high.

 

[alandis]

Re: Volvo Penta SX Drive Metal Particles In Oil

Your Idle RPM should be 550 – 650 RPM in forward gear in the water. Usually neutral idle is around 700 maybe a little less. Set it there and see what happens, adjust if necessary when you put it in the water. 8-900 is way to high.

Thank you Don S.