5 Signs Of A Bad Outboard Lower Unit On A Boat

Any damage to your boat may be annoying, but it can be especially difficult if it involves the bottom section of your outboard engine. Any damage to the bottom unit, which houses the gearbox, propeller, and propeller shaft, might result in serious issues that could eventually harm your top unit. Here are five indicators you may check for if you believe your lower unit on a boat may be damaged.

Leaking Gear Oil

The lower unit oil stored in your outboard engine may be damaged if you observe gear oil flowing from it. A cracked case, a stripped pinion gear, some reverse gears, broken seals or gaskets, or any of these items might result in gear lube leakage.

Grinding Noises

The sound of grinding is another hint that the lower unit of your outboard motor could be damaged. Grinding sounds might be caused by a variety of different factors, including stripped gears or a bent propeller shaft.

Locked-Up Motor

Your outboard motor's inability to rotate is an unquestionable sign that the bottom unit is broken if it locks up. This warning sign is often brought on by a broken shift shaft, but it may also be brought on by a broken propeller shaft or a broken water pump, among other reasons.

Leaking Oil from the Propeller Shaft

If oil is coming out of the propeller shaft, the bottom unit's seals are probably damaged. A fractured casing or a bent propeller shaft can also result in oil leakage.

Bent or Damaged Propeller

The bottom unit is likely damaged if you observe that the propeller is bent or otherwise damaged. Running aground, colliding with a floating log or other items, or colliding with underwater obstructions can all result in bent or broken propellers.

It's crucial to take your outboard to a skilled technician for repair or replacement if you detect any of these symptoms. It might be risky and perhaps harmful to attempt to fix the bottom unit yourself.

How to Keep Your Outboard Motor in Good Shape

It's crucial to take appropriate care of your motor to assist prevent damage to your outboard's bottom unit. Here are some pointers you can practice:

Keep It Tidy: Maintaining your outboard engine will help prevent salt and other debris from building up and causing problems.

Use a Flush After Each Use: After each usage, flush your outboard with fresh water to help get rid of any salt, sand, or other debris that can harm the bottom unit.

Verify for Leaks: Additionally, it's crucial to routinely inspect your outboard for leaks. Leaks should be addressed as soon as you detect them to limit future harm.

Service Your Boats at Boater's World Marine Centers

If you own a boat and want to keep them in great shape, you can count on Boater's World Marine Centers for maintenance and repair works. Our highly trained technicians can help with the upkeeping and servicing of your boat, outboard motors, or PWC, at an affordable price. Additionally, we also have an array of boats, ranging from fishing boats to aluminum boats. For more information, schedule an appointment or contact us today.