Lower Unit 200HP Merc - Problem

[Eluder1]

Afer my disassembly to replace my prop shaft seals last winter I started to winterize the lower unit apon removing the Magnetic plug which was full of ULTRA FINE metal and the oil was Black and had a VERY strong odor-unlike new merc lube. I put a magnet on the side of the plastic container and was able to pull the oil up the side!
My question is--Bearing going bad or something maybe I did on reassembly? Lucky for me I have a NOS unit so I am not pressured to take the Damn thing apart again!
Note: All bearings and races we in excellent shape--Had boat for 14 yrs-it's an 1984
Mercury. Thanks!!!

[TEXAS20225]

they do wear out!!! plastic container ?? where??? meshing gears make small parts especially if there was any water some time or other, oil and water pumps are replaced annually on the 2.4,2.5 cases and your is a preload pin model if its the original make sure pin in the end of drive shaft is still in place if its gone the lower unit cannot maintain .025 pinion height

[Eluder1]

I poured the oil in a plastic container. No water ever got into unit-and preload pin was in when installed.
I guess when I tear her down we will know!--------Thanks.

[TEXAS20225]

i rebuild these as a vocation not many 20 year old lower units still in tact good luck


PS thats 30 years old my bad

[Eluder1]

Yes 30 years-I will find out what the problem is. Have a spare NOS about the same age-never been installed. I will let you know what I find in the next few months! Thanks!