oil leak by my prop 50 Mariner

[perchking]

I just got my boat out of storage and I noticed a small oil leak around my prop. I took off the prop and I am sure it is just a seal that needs to be replaced, but just wondering if there are any special tools I need to get at it? Is it a seal kit or a single seal down there? It is a 1989 Mariner 50HP. The oil seems pretty black. Do you think the oil that is leaking is from the lower unit? I am sure it is but just want to make sure. I did change the lower unit oil last year, so it just seems like it is pretty black from one year of use. I dont have a manual for that engine so any help or diagram would be appreciated.

Thanks,

[perchking]

I found this on another site. It is way to black to be lower unit oil.

"It's common for unburned fuel/oil to puddle under the engine. Just check the level of the lower unit. If it is OK then don't worry about it."

[marine_man]

Yep, it's very likely just unburned fuel & oil. Did you have water in the lower unit when you changed the oil last winter? If not, I'd check the oil from time to time if you're worried about it, but you're probably just fine.

marine_man