oil reservoir alarm

[Crow Hunter]

My oil reservoir alarm started going off this weekend, the reservoir was full. I wound up disconnecting the alarm and mixing oil in a gas tank in case the oil injection was not working; oil was removed from the reservoir as the weekend went along so I know it is. This is a 75 horse Mariner, around 1990 model. How difficult is it to replace this sensor? Is there any way to do it without taking the reservoir out of the motor? Is there a way to seriously screw up if I replace this myself? Thanks for any replies. CH

[Crow Hunter]

bump

[Valv]

The alarm is for low or no oil only, it doesn't beep for pump malfunction. I would assume it's the oil sensor, but I am sure you'll have to take tank off, it is not that bad.

If you are not sure, I suggest taking it to a mechanic, it might be more expensive but it will save you money if something else is wrong.

[Hillbiehle]

I had a very similar problem. Check the archives from a few weeks ago and that may provide additional detail. For my Mercury, removing the sensor was not a problem, although it took more time as I replaced all the oil lines in the process as they were very brittle.

[fivebucks]

Crowhunter, I have the exact same motor and mine did that 2 years ago. I replaced the whole oil resevoir. The problem with mine was the float was not working properly and the guy at the shop said that's the case most of the time. The mercury place on Washington ave. had them in stock and I changed mine out without any hitches. Good luck.

[Crow Hunter]

Thanks for all the help, guys. Fivebucks, how much did you have to pay for the new part?

[Hillbiehle]

I know this was addressed to 5bucks, but I believe I paid $18 from R&R Marine.

[fivebucks]

I can't remember what I paid. I know it wasn't too much.