Which way does yellow gasket go? Lower unit plugs

[Skunkmaster]

I have a Mercury outboard, 50hp. I have drained the gear lube, but the yellow washers that act as gaskets for each screw fell out. I notice they have two sides. Which side should be facing inwards/outwards when reinstalling?

1C634244

34C02C88-A079-429C-9555-344A6C8466D0.jpeg

[scalhoun506]

I'm a fellow 50hp owner, getting ready for 100 hour service. interested in answer. and you will be asked for your serial number, by moderator

[Skunkmaster]

I'm a fellow 50hp owner, getting ready for 100 hour service. interested in answer. and you will be asked for your serial number, by moderator

serial number does not matter for this one…but here 1C634244

[SilverFox579]

It does not matter which way side faces where with that gasket.

[06 SB]

I always put the flat side (the bottom one in the picture) toward the lower unit. I do not know if it is correct but can tell you in 20+ years of doing my own LU lube changes, I have never has an issue with a gasket leaking. I never reuse them either. I never reuse any gasket unless it is an emergency.

[Mechanic Bob]

I always put the flat side (the bottom one in the picture) toward the lower unit. I do not know if it is correct but can tell you in 20+ years of doing my own LU lube changes, I have never has an issue with a gasket leaking. I never reuse them either. I never reuse any gasket unless it is an emergency.

This^
I will add, I always put some grease so that the gasket does not bind.