Gearcase Lubrication - Mercury 135 Optimax Operation And Maintenance Manual

Gearcase Lubrication

When adding or changing gearcase lubricant, visually check for the presence of water in the lubricant. If water is
present, it may have settled to the bottom and will drain out prior to the lubricant, or it may be mixed with the
lubricant, giving it a milky colored appearance. If water is noticed, have the gearcase checked by your dealer.
Water in the lubricant may result in premature bearing failure or, in freezing temperatures, will turn to ice and
damage the gearcase.
Examine the drained gearcase lubricant for metal particles. A small amount of metal particles indicates normal
gear wear. An excessive amount of metal filings or larger particles (chips) may indicate abnormal gear wear and
should be checked by an authorized dealer.
DRAINING GEARCASE
1. Place outboard in a vertical operating position.
2. Place drain pan below outboard.
3. Remove vent plug and fill/drain plug and drain lubricant.
a - Vent plug
GEARCASE LUBRICANT CAPACITY
Gearcase lubricant capacity is approximately 666 ml (22.5 fl. oz.).
GEARCASE LUBRICANT RECOMMENDATION
Mercury or Quicksilver Premium or High Performance Gear Lubricant.
CHECKING LUBRICANT LEVEL AND REFILLING GEARCASE
1. Place outboard in a vertical operating position.
2. Remove vent plug.
3. Remove fill/drain plug. Place lubricant tube into the fill hole and add lubricant until it appears at the vent hole.
MAINTENANCE
a
b
b - Fill/drain plug
49
ob00686
3399