Water leaking into drive bottom end!!

[Colin Mckee]

Hi all, 1979 mercruiser 140hp, 4 cylinder, with mercruiser drive. I just changed the oil in the bottom end of the drive and the oil was a milky white/yellowish color, i believe this is a sign of water contamination right? What could the possible causes be?, prop seal???

 

[Don S]

Re: Water leaking into drive bottom end!!

You have a leak.
Pull the drive, is there water in the bellows? If there is, there is your water intrusion.
If it dry, or even wet, drain the gear lube completely, then do a pressure and vacuum check. Then you will know for sure where the water came from.