1998 Johnson 25hp lower unit leak? Model J25RLECB

[Motorman2018]

There is a small hole on the right side of the lower unit above the gear case fill hole which is on the left side. A small amount of oil/grease leakes out of this hole while inside on a motor stand. Is this just an overflow for the gearcase or something I need to be concerned with? I just bought the motor. Pic attached, please help
Please answer to: [email protected]
Thanks

 

[racerone]

The gearcase is sealed.----There is no overflow fitting on them.

 

[Motorman2018]

Any ideas as to just what this is?
I'm at a loss. I don't see it on motor diagrams

 

[flyingscott]

That is a drain hole for water trapped in the lower. What you are seeing is sunburned fuel oil mix leaking out. It usually happens after you run it on muffs or do a lot of idling. Perfectly normal for the motor to do that.

 

[faztbullet]

Agree with above.......smell it and it will likely has a gas smell

 

[Motorman2018]

Thanks a million. As usual I was expecting the worst. You've been very helpful.

 

[Boobie]

For piece of mind have it pressure and vacuum checked.

 

[Motorman2018]

Thanks, good idea

 

[kimcrwbr1]

Change the gearoil and nylon fill/vent washers and go fishing. After it has set a day pull the drain plug and quickly put it back in. If there is no water in the oil top it off and enjoy the summer. How old is the impeller?

 

[Motorman2018]

I don't know the age of the impeller but I will take your advise and check the gear oil for moisture.
Thanks

 

[kimcrwbr1]

Pull the gearbox and check the impeller and housing. At the least put in a new impeller so you have a reference point. With proper maintenace you should get a couple years between impellers.

 

[Motorman2018]

Thanks again. Good idea, is it a big or difficult job to change out the impeller?

 

[Motorman2018]

Water pump kit was installed in Sept 2017 and that included a new impeller so thats been done already, should be fine for a while.
Thanks