Drive Lube Consumption

[Slippery When Wet]

OK, after about a month into this season, I noticed my drive lube level was low. I attributed it to needing to be "burped" from being changed last fall, so I just bought a qt and topped it off. I checked it again today and it was getting low again, near the bottom of operating level range. I would guess the amount I needed to add to top it off was maybe a cup or less. The qt I bought is still over 1/2 full after these two top-offs. I do use my boat a lot and have probably put 50 hours on it over this span.

I assume it must be leaking, but I have not seen any signs of oil film in the water in my slip or at the beach.

Is this anything I need to worry about? Is there a chance I have water in my lube?

Any and all opinions are welcome,
Thanks!

 

[Lazy Daze]

What drive?

I would drain a bit out of the lower drain screw and see if there is any water in the fluid. Did you change the two gaskets on the drain and vent screws?

 

[Slippery When Wet]

What drive?

I would drain a bit out of the lower drain screw and see if there is any water in the fluid. Did you change the two gaskets on the drain and vent screws?

Alpha 1, no, I bought this boat a year ago and had it professionally winterized last fall.

The boat has been slipped since May, but it has been on the trailer in my driveway all this week (mid-season cleaning) and there are no signs of leaking fluid.:huh:

 

[Lazy Daze]

It may only leak when running.

 

[Firerooster]

PM sent

 

[sr330daguy]

If you keep loosing lube and your gear case plug gaskets are good, pull the prop and look there,fishing line can cut a seal and sometimes, as mentioned, will only leak when the boat is running,as will an upper input seal which will leak lube into the u-joint bellows with no sign. You'll have to pull the drive to inspect for that.Next step would be a pressure/vacuum test.