| > Enginetype:
IOgas
> motormodel:
Mercuiser 7.4 L Bravo III 1996
> Configured:
single
> boatmodel:
Searay
> Boatlocation:
(salt)
> > I would like to test my Bravo III outdrive to make sure that the small amount of
high performance gear lube loss I experienced during the boating season this year is not
the result of leaking seals in the outdrive. I added lube two or three times during the
season once after about two months - approx 2+ ounces needed to fill other times only
about 1 ounce needed. Drained the oil at the end of the season and fluid appeared to be
normal in color with no milky look. Only saw a small stream of "tan" drained out
at the very end of the oil stream. I looked in a repair manual but could not find a
process for testing the seals in the outdrive. I heard that these is a pressure or vacuum
test that can be performed. How do you do it and what should the results be.
>
> *******************************************************************
Depending on usage and temperature.. some
lube loss can occur. No presence of water, in the lube, would lead me to believe that you
may be experiencing normal consumption.
To pressure and vacuum test... you need to
drain the lube completely. Then remove the reservoir bottle and plug the hose. Install the
bottom plug in the sterndrive and the tester in the top drain hole of the drive. The unit
should hold 12 to 20 psi and be able to maintain a vacuum reading of 7 to 10.
The tester is just a hand operated pressure
/ vacuum pump with a gauge on it.
If it can't hold pressure.. use a spray
bottle with soapy water in it to trace for the leak. Spray around shafts and carriers and
fittings looking for bubbles. If you can't find the leak... remove the sterndrive from the
boat and retest the drive. If it tests good now... the problem could be in the seal at the
bell housing and/or hose to the reservoir.
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