I noticed something had been leaking when I did an inspection on my motor this spring. I cleaned up all the fluids (was oily) and fished a couple of tournaments since cleaning. I notice after last weekend there was oily residue around the steering arm again.
Once back home I removed the cowling cover and started inspecting for the leak again. I could not see anything apparent but could see where it was trailing down from. It was coming from behind the ICM module. So I removed the ICM module and couldn't see any leaks (motor not running) or any leaks on the hoses.
I put the rabbit ears on and started the engine and finally found the leak. There is a hairline crack in the casting seam on the block of the #1 Cylinder. I imagine it opens up more when the engine gets warmer and leaks pretty good.
I ran the engine 4 days straight this past weekend and had no issues with speed or getting on plane. The engine is still strong and runs great! Two guys, Bass proshops amounts of tackle, two full livewells, 1/2 tank of gas and still hitting 68 mph WOT.
My question is this:
Will Mercury help offset some of the cost for a casting failure if it is truly that?
I would not have a problem paying for labor costs if they will replace the powerhead!