I am having to replace a lower unit on one of my outboards. Was wondering what some of the general causes of lower unit failure are and, and can they be prevented or is this just the nature of the beast when operating big-block outboards or outboards in general for that matter? Any ■■■■■■■■ would be very much appreciated. Thank you.
Do not tell fish stories where the people know you; but particularly, don’t tell them where they know the fish.
These are the most common. It is relatively easy (for someone trained) to determine the failure based on what the gears and prop/drive shaft looks like.
Overdue gear oil change/lack of lube
excessive water in oil
high speed shifting
wave jumping
struck submerged object