‘79 53’ Classic MY transmission question

[Jimn53MY]

So this is my first time we might own a vessel if this style/brand.

We attempted a sea trial/survey yesterday and upon backing out of the dock the port transmission would not engage in forward (reverse worked fine). It was later determined to be a little low on fluid.

The current owner has owned it for 8 years and stated it’s the 1st time he’s added fluid.

I am assuming it is not leaking excessively anywhere (to be verified when we restart the survey on Friday) so is it normal that it will bleed off a little fluid over a long period?

Anything/anywhere in particular I should look for/at when I return?

Oil analysis is planned for both engines/transmissions & generator.

Thanks,

Jim

 

[Pascal]

These Alisons are pretty bullet proof but very sensitive to oil level and air leaks at the pump. Low oil will prevent it from going in forward while still engaging reverse just fine. A delay in engaging forward is a warning sign that level is getting low

Level just be checked with the engine running and the gear in neutral.

A common issue is a suction leak at the filter/screen as the gasket under the housing with the 3 bolts is a bit fragile

Yes the pump can go bad but eliminate the above first.

And obviously check the gear oil pressure at the helm and compare with the other one.

Finally over filling can cause aeration and issues.

 

[SEVEN]

Low oil for sure. Check it while warming up every time.