Thread subject: Whaler Central - Boston Whaler Boat Information and Photos :: Lower unit 1984 90 hp Johnson

Posted by Pete on 01/28/07 - 7:12 PM
#1

Hello, I could use some of your experience. I do appreciate the help you all provide at this site.
I have a few drops of oil leaking from the prop shaft. When I purchased this pkg I checked the lower unit oil and there was no water in it and no metal shavings. The oil smelled foul like it was not changed in quite some time. I asked the owner about his maint schedule and he said "I did not use it much". This was the second owner who had the boat 6 years. I have read there are 2 seals in the prop shaft - one to keep oil in and one to keep water out and they are placed back to back. Is it posible the seal which keeps oil in is bad and the seal which keeps water out is good? If this is so I should be in good shape to replace the seals and go no further into the lower unit. Is this just wishfull thinking ?
Thanks Much !

Posted by Joe Kriz on 01/28/07 - 7:39 PM
#2

Pete,

I think you are correct.
I had an outward leaking seal which allowed some oil on the floor.
However when doing a pressure test, this seal would not leak. It would seal itself.
It also did not leak with a suction test... It only seemed to leak out when sitting.

The oil did not show any signs of water intrusions so I just had both seals replaced.
Never had a problem after that. The first seals lasted 15 years +...
That was my experience.

Posted by Pete on 01/29/07 - 4:41 AM
#3

Thanks Joe, The leak started after the engine sat without running for about 6 weeks. I dont think the previous owner held anything back about the boat or motor - knowingly anyway. He used the boat every weekend and kept the boat in the water this past season. I would imagine the engine was tilted up when not in use. He would not have noticed. I'll fix it or have it done.

This site is great. Thanks once again.