Motor Problem

[MRWALLEYE2005]

I have noticed that gear lube is dripping down the back of my motor after I use it fishing. What could be wrong with it?

[Surface Tension]

If your dripping gear lube it should be coming from the area around the prop shaft or drain plug. In which case you need a seal kit or a new washer for your plug. You should drain the oil from the lower unit and look for water and to get an idea of the oil level. If theres water then its time to get it serviced.

What color is the oil. If its black its not gear lube just residue from the exhaust which is normal to see.

[MRWALLEYE2005]

Its not black. I think it could be coming from the hole where the water goes out.

[Surface Tension]

Year, HP and make? Sounds like your pushing oil out the shift rod or drive shaft seal. Both seals will come in the seal kit.

Did you by any chance replace the lower unit oil with automotive gear oil?

[MRWALLEYE2005]

Mercury 9.9 hp 1987 motor, I use the Mercury brand gear oil in it.

[Surface Tension]

I'd drain the lower unit and check for water and oil level. If there not nay water in there and the oil level is OK then I'd refill and see what happens. If its low or you find water you might just need the shift and drive seal. You'll have to pull the drive off and remove the water pump to get at the drive seal so you may as well replace the impeller too.