GEAR LUBE PROBLEM

Doc, I spring-started my boat this weekend (a 1995 Bryant 189 powered by a MerCruiser

4.3 sterndrive). When I did this, an alarm of continuous beeps sounded. The engine temp needle didn’t move from 120 degrees F, and the oil pressure was about 45 psi. This leaves the gear lube. I changed my impeller last week and made sure to put the lube-oil O-ring in and pump new gear lube from the bottom until it was coming out the vent. After the first start, I saw I forgot to put oil into the reserve in the engine. I filled that up, turned the key, and the alarm still sounded. I took off the lower part of the lower unit, and it looks like the gear lube is cycling correctly (see photo). Do you have any ideas for diagnosing what the problem is and how to fix it? My current plan is to reinstall the new impeller, pump in new oil and see what happens. Thank you.

Jon Foster Columbus, Ohio

Nice to see you’re working on a proper stand. First, did you check the remote fluid reservoir? Often some air will “burp” during a fluid change and drop the level in that reservoir. After that, check your sending units and sensors. If there is no apparent cause, operate with caution and see if the alarm reoccurs. If it does so, see a factorytrained technician.