Spring exposed in my prop shaft seal of my E-tec 150

[tommyc_285XL]

I posted this in the lounge too but I thought I would post in here too. I'm sure this is a newbie question and shows my knowledge of motors. I took my prop off of my E-tec 150 HO to fish a place that has a hp limit. One of the options they have to fish there with a big motor is to take the prop off. Anyway, I noticed the prop shaft seal spring is exposed when I took the prop off and thought that I don't really know what I am looking at, but it didn't quite look right to me. Does the spring being exposed mean that the seal is bad? I attached a few pictures for you guys to look at it. Like I said, I am not that knowledgeable on outboards. I had plans to go on a fishing trip this weekend but I got worried when I saw it.

[JeffA]

my guess is that seal needs to be replaced.

[tommyc_285XL]

That's what I was told. I am looking to find a local dealer to take it to early this week and have it inspected and seal replaced. Thanks.

[.:{KC}:.]

I wonder how long it's been like that?

[tommyc_285XL]

It was replaced last summer under warranty when I noticed a few drops of oil under the motor on the garage floor. The boat has been in the water maybe 10-12 times since then.

[Sunbird1992]

Tommy,
I'd be calling the dealer back!!!!!

[bigbass225]

Have them check your exhaust tuner water port...mine got plugged and burned up 2 lower units after the seal melted and let all the lube out!!!

[gearcaseman]

It looks as though you may have encountered some fishing line at some point. You need to replace this seal without question and check your fluid for water A.S.A.P.