Not enough gear lube...

[EricD]

I was out changing my oil and getting ready for winter (115 Mercury 4 stroke). It's the first time I've done it myself with this motor. After draining everything I found out that I didn't have enough gear lube. I put oil in the crank and put it back in the garage because I was afraid to start it with no gear lube. For future reference, is it ok to run the engine to check for leaks and check oil level without gear lube in the lower unit?

[boatfixer]

I would not suggest it. Be sure to fill it this fall though. Baaaad things happen if you forget to re fill in the spring.

[fish2live]

yes it is fine to start the motor to check for leaks with out the gear case full. just don't forget to fill the lower unit before you go to use the boat.

[Northlander]

Fill it now then you wont forget.

[EricD]

Thanks, all. I was planning on filling it as soon as I got more lube on Tuesday. I was just wondering if I could start up the engine so I could finish checking for oil leaks and checking the level. Thanks for the replies. It's always a bit unnerving with a new boat and motor because you can't be sure if something has changed since the old one.

[hydro]

If you are starting it up in the driveway, you are fine. As long as there is no load on the gears no damage will occur.

Fill it up before you hit the water.

[Surface Tension]

The drive shaft is spinning the instant you start the engine.

How low of oil do you want to risk it?

Indecently, don't drain and fill the lower unit until you've run stabil through the engine and fogged. Once your done with the muffs then you drain the lower unit.