Is it normal to have water exhausting through the lower unit

[Mich222]

I would like confirmation that my 1997 8 HP Mercury 2-stroke outboard is designed to have water exhausting out at the lower unit. Perhaps I just never before noticed the water that is exhausting out at the lower unit (see area red circle in picture).

The indicator water stream is strong and continuous and motor appears to be running very well. I will also check to make sure there is no water in the oil.

 

[wetass]

I would like confirmation that my 1997 8 HP Mercury 2-stroke outboard is designed to have water exhausting out at the lower unit. Perhaps I just never before noticed the water that is exhausting out at the lower unit (see area red circle in picture).

The indicator water stream is strong and continuous and motor appears to be running very well. I will also check to make sure there is no water in the oil.

Yup - your good - most should flow thru the hub. The indicator is just a visual confirmation that water is flowing since you cant see the water coming out the hub - normally.

 

[tommays]

Re: Is it normal to have water exhausting through the lower

The bulk of the water comes out through the prop to cool the exaust

On BIG motors like the new 350 HP it can still be so HOT it will melt a standard rubber prop hub

 

[Winkfish]

Re: Is it normal to have water exhausting through the lower

On my fishing boat I have a 1985 Merc 90hp. Where the lower unit attaches to the vertical shaft housing, there's no gasket. It is a metal to metal seal. Water often, probably always, comes out of there, in addition to the pee hole and the prop hub. I believe what you have is normal.

Do you have a water pressure gauge on your boat? That's the key indicater to make sure the water is getting to the right place.

 

[Mich222]

Re: Is it normal to have water exhausting through the lower

Thanks for the confirmations. No- I don't have a water pressure gauge.