Water in the gear case lube

[Fried Fillets]

I just drained the gear lube out of my motor and it had some off-white streaks mixed in with the brown oil. From what I know, which isn't much, I'm assuming this is the dreaded "water in the gear lube" syndrome. Since my 90HP Mercury outboard is only 2 years old, I would like to know if this is uncommon for a newer motor? Also, should I take it into a reputable Mercury dealer? If so, who provides the better service in the LSC area? Thanks.......Steve

[tubejig]

Fried Fillets, that off white color is not necessarily water but it
could from a ton of use on the motor this year. Water will
generally separate itself from the fluid and you will see clear
bubbles flowing down the side of your lower unit. If you were to
view the fluid in your drain pan you will see the seperation of the
two. I use my boat a ton during the warm months and I will
drain my fluid in the middle of the season to check for water
and to make sure that I have fresh lube in it. This is a stupid
analogy but, after 3000 miles of oil on a vehicle engine we all
know that it is time to change it, not just once a year like a boat.
To be safe about the situation be sure to contact a couple local
marinie mecahnics to get your answer.



tubejig

[Fried Fillets]

Thanks Tubejig, I took my oil to work and showed a co-worker, who knows a lot about boats and motors. The oil did not have any of the white streaks in it this morning. He reassured me that all the oil would be a milky color, not just a couple streaks. Makes sense to me, thanks for the follow-up.......Steve