Changing gear oil - The Hull Truth

L.M. · 07-22-2008, 08:39 PM

While filling the lower unit with a small manual pump a little air got in the line as the first quart ran out. Switched over to a new quart and kept pumping until full. Is the air a problem?

A1 Outboard · 07-22-2008, 09:16 PM

Not a problem. The air bubble worked its way to the top as you filled the gearcase. If you are concerned about it put the motor vertical and let it set for about an hour, then remove the upper screw and using a zip-tie for a "dipstick" see how far down the oil level is. Normally you will find it between 1/2 and 1 inch below the threads.

L.M. · 07-23-2008, 06:50 AM

So that much drop in oil level is O.k.? Is that just from "settling" in? At what level should you add some and should you pump in from the lower plug again, or pour a little in the top. Maybe a stupid question, but it can get to be a messy job. Thanks for the info!!

A1 Outboard · 07-24-2008, 08:42 PM

The easiest way to just "top off" the oil is to use a pump oil can to squirt some into the upper vent screw hole.

surffishn · 08-12-2008, 07:58 PM

What is the best or easiest pump to use to fill lower unit.I got a 20 hp yamaha. The bottom screw is at a angle.The older evinrudes i used to have were easy to fill.

A1 Outboard · 08-12-2008, 09:44 PM

At a dealer or a marine store, Evinrude dealer, or even WalMart, get a gearcase fill pump kit and a metric threaded adapter. That way you can hand pump from a quart bottle of gear lube from the bottom screw hole until it comes out the upper one.