Engine noise at idle 2025-06-06 and 2026-06-08
Message for Rob re: Oil leak
In 2024, when I had to have someone come down to our pontoon at Caesar Creek to install new spark plugs, martin nesting material was found under the cowling. We cleared out as much as possible. After that, I sent you an email explaining the situation and requesting that the debris be cleaned out when the pontoon was serviced.
When we got the boat in 2025, we assumed that this was taken care of. Due to my wife’s illness, we didn’t use the boat very often in 2025.
Leroy delivered the boat in late April. I drove it around the lake briefly and then docked it. My nephew who was helping me, noticed oil in the water around the engine. I did not have the time to check it out at that time. The boat sat in dock until June 7th. After being out on the lake for about 4 hours, I noticed a lot more oil in the water and could see it dripping from the engine. The next day I called you to tell you about the leak and you suggested that I take the cowling off to see if anything could be detected visually.
Several days later (Friday), with some assistance, I was able to get the cowling off in order to look around.
What I first noticed was that the bird nesting material had not been removed. I knew this wasn’t new because I had been using an engine cover since I discovered the nesting in 2024. So my request to have it cleaned out was not done. I started using the cover in June; I notified you of it in October before the boat was picked up for servicing and storing.
I also saw pooled up oil near the oil filter. After struggling to remove the oil filter and finally getting it off, nothing stood out until the o-ring was removed. Under the o-ring, there was a piece of the nesting material (about 1 inch long) between the o-ring and the filter housing. Because the o-ring could not be seated completely, it leaked. Once we cleared the debris and reseated the o-ring and filter, there was no leak. We had to add 2 quarts of oil.
That’s a long story and there are images below to confirm.
So, I would appreciate you getting together with your management to see how to make this right. I recall Monica saying that we were “part of the family” after we purchased the pontoon. I trust that you all will take care of the family.
I look forward to hearing from you.
– Ven
