Prevent Water intrusion to the Lower unit, check your propeller shaft

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Remove Propeller frequently (every 3rd or 4th trip) and check for fishing line on the Propeller Shaft. Fishing line can get into the Propeller Shaft and create a Gear Lube leak that you may not notice until the Lower Unit Gears fail form a lack of proper lubrication. This can be a very expensive repair. This is more important to Fishermen who frequent popular fishing spots where larger amounts of fishing line can be found. If you do find fishing line on the shaft, remove it, grease the Propeller Shaft and reinstall the Propeller. Next, check the Gear Lube for water intrusion. If there is water in the lube it will come out looking like clear water, or the oil will look white and creamy. If you find this, change the gear lube immediately with proper lower unit gear oil. It is possible for the propeller shaft seal to be damaged by fishing line. If you suspect seal damage, the Lower Unit must be pressure and vacuum tested to verify the integrity of the seals and O-rings that keep the oil in, and the water out. Alvin Marine can provide all pressure and vacuum testing services and we also stock different types of gear lube depending on the Manufacturer of your Engine. Please feel free to call or come by and see us.

Happy Boating!

Author

Ken Wood owner of Alvin Marine LLC is a Factory Trained & Certified Marine technician with over 30 years experience in the industry.