[AJS]

Its possible that the problem is in the anti-siphon valve that is supposed to be in the fuel line. It consists of a spring loaded ball inside a cylindrical fitting located near the exit of the fuel tank. Its purpose is to prevent fuel from siphoning into the boat should a line break or the needle valve in the carbeurator fail. The force of the spring is overcome by the fuel pump when the engine is started. If your anti-siphon valve it stuck open (or not there) and the needle valve in the carb is leaking a little, the end result is fuel leaking out of the air cleaner.
Does the fuel leak when the motor is off? If it only leaks while the motor is running you likely have another problem such as the ones mentioned in the previous message.

As to the love-hate with Saildrives: I''m currently on the love side of things. They have lots of power for the weight. We have to remember that these things are old and not supported by parts and service. I like mine but would be cautious about buying a boat with one in it if you are "mechanically declined". Any piece of equipment that is not maintained will eventually fail. The OMC is stubbornly still going but they are really dropping like flies now, hence the bad reputation.
I wonder if these units were so heavily criticized 15 years ago when parts and service were still available? Does anyone know?

I currently am looking for a spare lower unit (gear case). If anyone has a recently retired OMC Saildrive with a gearcase in good external condition I would be interested in purchasing it.

Good luck.