Drive Lube color

[wish2fish]

Does High Performance gear lube lighten somewhat in color after running?

I drained and replace the lube while changing the water pump in my brother's boat. I went back and checked the lube and it looked a little lighter in color, but it wasn't frothy. Does air get mixed in with the lube when running, because that is what I thought it looked like.

thanks,

 

[Creekwood]

If it was cloudy, muddy or milky looking then sounds like water in the oil. That normally means a prop shaft seal replacement is in order.

Don't wait, suggest to him to get it fixed right away. Gears are more expensive than seals.

Also, you do not want water in the oil over winter. It will freeze and probably crack the lower unit housing.