Alpha-1 lower unit question

[SST]

There are only two times that I drain the lower unit: 1) To check for foreign debris or 2) time to change it. I never leave it drained and always refill it to protect the gears from exposure and therefore corrosion.

But my friend just called and said he told his mechanic to drain the lower unit. It appears that that’s exactly what he did. Drained it. The boat now sits in storage with lower screw not in place and no oil.

Are the gears still protected with remaining film on them or are they in danger of corrosion?

 

[Phillbo]

How long will it sit?

 

[SST]

April.

 

[Denny]

Inside or outside storage.
Gear oil is pretty thick and even thicker the colder the temp. Which should keep a film on the gears.
Not sure if it would be better putting the plug back in, or leaving it out.
The only concern would be moisture.
If it were me I would opt for putting the gear lube back in, better safe than sorry.

 

[SST]

Inside or outside storage.
Gear oil is pretty thick and even thicker the colder the temp. Which should keep a film on the gears.
Not sure if it would be better putting the plug back in, or leaving it out.
The only concern would be moisture.
If it were me I would opt for putting the gear lube back in, better safe than sorry.

It is currently outside but will make its way to unheated inside storage.

To me it’s such a risk……thanks for the reply.

 

[Denny]

It is currently outside but will make its way to unheated inside storage.

To me it’s such a risk……thanks for the reply.

Not perfect, but still better than outside.