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I have a 1984 35hp Evinrude and when changing the oil I noticed some water in the lower end unit. I was wonder if there are any seals or gaskets I need to change out. Or if anyone knows how else water could be getting in there.
There are several seals, directly below the water pump at the drive shaft and around the prop shaft. There may be others, shift shaft etc...
Age will begin the break down the rubber and that's when they start to leak. Fishing line can also cause problems around the prop shaft. Since you have a 1984 model I'd say you got you moneys worth out of those seals...:-)
Other ways water can get in is by loose oil fill screws or pin holes in a badly pitted lower unit.
Jon in NJ
Many other boats and outboards in my boating history
The Whaler is the one I like the best!!!
Another issue could be condensation which is the main reason we should change the lower fluid every year. If your fluid is chocolate milky looking it is a clear indication of an issue but not necessarily from a bad seal. If it has been a few years since it was changed last I think I would drain it completely, refill it and if your fill plug and overfill plug have seals I would replace them now. Then run the motor for a couple of outings and re check the fluid.
Here in the NE where most motors are stored out of water over the winter I would go with a fluid change at the end of every season just so you are sure there is no water in there for the winter.
A motor being baked in the warm sun could easily be 100+ degrees when you drop it in to 50 degree water. It is always a great practice to also allow your trailer bearings time to cool after towing to the lake and before plunging them.
