KEEP THE GEARS IN MOTION

Yamaha recommends replacing your lower unit lubricant after the first 20 hours for a new outboard, then every 100 hours after that. Yamaha recommends replacing your lower unit lubricant after the first 20 hours for a new outboard, then every 100 hours after that. Tilt the outboard motor so the bottom drain screw is at the lowest point. Place a pan under the bottom drain screw, remove the screw, and then remove the upper vent screw on the side of the lower unit. Allow all of the lubricant to drain into the pan. While you’re waiting, check the magnetic drain screw. Finding fine metallic dust is normal, but if you find larger chips of metal on the screw or in the drain pan, have your dealer check for possible internal damage. Also, replace the small crush washer present on each screw (commonly known as “drain plug gaskets”). If you don’t see one, it may still be adhering to the outboard. Use a pick to pull it free, as these must be located, discarded, and replaced each time these screws are removed.

NOTE: These drain screw crush washers are not reusable. They are a main source of protection against water intrusion into the lower unit, which can cause dilution of the lubricant. Use new sealing washers any time the drain or vent screws are removed. Do NOT try to save a few pennies here. Lower units are very expensive. It’s best to always have some extra drain plug gaskets on hand.

Once the lube has drained, place the motor in an upright position with the prop shaft level to the ground. This will ensure the gearcase can be fully filled. Then, refill the lower unit by threading the appropriate fitting into the lower unit drain screw opening and slowly pumping in fresh Yamalube Marine Gearcase Lube or Lubricant HD. Once you see this new fluid seeping out of the upper vent screw hole, stop and wait 5 minutes, then very slowly continue pumping until it seeps from the vent screw again. At this point, replace the vent screw with a new crush washer installed and tighten according to manufacturer specifications. Remove the fitting attached to the drain screw opening, and quickly reinstall the drain screw with the new crush washer installed. Tighten to factory specifications.