How to Change Gear Oil in Lower Unit

Getting your boat ready for long term storage is a drag. You might be a do it yourself maintenance maniac, or you may just want to know that your marina is doing it right. We want to show you how to change gear oil in your lower unit as it is essential to be done before winter or long term storage. Don't leave this step to spring or ignore it completely. In this video we will cover:
0:00 Intro
1:45 How to check your lower unit lubricant
2:23 Things to look for and mistakes to avoid
2:58 How to drain the lubricant from your lower unit
4:10 How to check the reservoir bottle on the engine
4:40 How to refill your lower unit
6:28 How to make sure it is ready for storage
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For more info check out these resources:
*One on one boat chat to ask me questions: app.hubspot.com/meetings/sean715
*Should I Change My Boat Engine Oil in the Fall: • Should I Change My Boa...
*Boat care/Maintenance Playlist: • Boat Care/Boat Mainten...
*Len's Cove Learning Center: www.lenscove.com/learning-cen...

[@boatinglessons]

Do you have any tricks to help with this messy job for our viewers?

[@barrybebenek8691]

Fantastic video. To add: to keep oil from pouring out of the bottom plug, after filling, keep the top plug IN. It keeps oil from pouring out when trying to re-install the bottom plug. 🇨🇦👍🏼

[@boatinglessons]

💯 Barry!

[@wsvitak]

Wow so much simpler than my OMC. Had to fill and drain 3 separate points and the tilt box.

[@erich9063]

Great video. Wish this was available a week ago when I winterized my boat 😆

[@boatinglessons]

Timing is everything 🤣

[@Mr720juan]

Thanks for Sharing this video
And what’s the best lube oil in your opinion

[@tomdrummy4984]

Thanks ! What would you do with old lubricant that was drained out? How to dispose of

[@boatinglessons]

You need to take it to a recycling Center. It would depend on the facilities in your area. Most marinas should be able to as well

[@johnnyt9485]

Don't you keep pumping thru the bottom until the Reservoir is filled?

[@edland275]

Fairly new to boating and was wondering why you don’t fill from the top? Probably a good reason but would like to know the reason for filling from the bottom.

[@peterjensen6844]

Filling from the top runs the risk of trapping air in oil passages etc. Filling from the bottom helps bleed the system so you don't get a "false" full scenario.

[@dougmckenzie1279]

Surprised you recommend reusing the same gaskets. I replace all of mine for peace of mind. Suggest you might be creating a potential liability. I would also like to see you remove the propeller and check for fishing line which can destroy the shaft seal or at least mention it for us service freaks!

[@boatinglessons]

It's a good point Doug. We only replace them when they look like they need it, and yet your point is valid given how little they cost.

[@dougmckenzie1279]

@@boatinglessonsmy BMW motorcycle uses a brass ‘crush’ washer which need to be replaced with each oil change. One friend keeps reusing his because ‘why spend the money’ on a $20,000 machine.

[@boatinglessons]

@@dougmckenzie1279 Very interesting :-)

[@Andrico77]

Fram oil filter. Geez.

[@boatinglessons]

What is the best filter in your opinion Andy?

[@billbalyx8799]

so the last 2 years we've owned a boat I had a complete winter storage done, bravo3 305 merc, lower leg, motor oil and fogged... but another shop says they just drain everything in the fall and add lubes in the spring? Is there preferred proper method or do they both work well?