gear oil drain seals

C

cpt vic

New member
i think there was mention before about putting new screw seals on when you change gear oil.
so we bought new seals and they look like plastic discs the original ones are rubber, that seem to fit in the bottom threads of the screws . what's the consensus on replacing the year old originals (they look in good shape??) perhaps the rubber ones get thinner?? the replacements just don't seem like they would do as good a job don't want to do the wrong thing ???
 
The original and replacement washer on my lower unit (Johnson J-90) were both the thin plastic type. I ordered the washers by part number from the dealer using the service manual.
I'd check to ensure the replacement washers are the correct type first...
Mac
 
Cap Vic,

From my experience as an outboard mechanic:

Use the exact factory part! Do not substitute plastic washers for rubber o-rings.

If those seals leak, they can destroy your lower unit!

If you are changing your own gear oil, buy severals sets of seals to keep on hand and don't reuse the old ones. You can also buy a couple of spare drain plugs in case the heads get damaged. If you can, torque the plugs to the factory spec.

Always fill the gearcase from the bottom to eliminate air pockets.
 
I used to check for water every 50 hours by barely loosening my drain plug and inspecting the oil that dribbled out and then retightening. I never had any water at 50 but always did at 100 when I went to replace. So I had the lower unit tested and it was ok. Long story short, loosening the plug allowed water infusion. It seems the little white washers are only good for one tightening. Now the only time I loosen a plug is when I replace the gear oil. Both plugs then get new washers.
 
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