Milky Bilge Water

QuickMick · #1 (**permalink**) 08-26-2010

So... after reattaching the manifold and tracking down my fuel line problem I thought I had better pump out the bilge into a 5 gal bucket for obvious reasons. I have just connected a new hose to the pump which is clear, and while pumping I noticed that the water from the bilge was very milky. I dont think a bit of fuel would cause this, and Im starting to think there may be an oil leak to create this color? I dont think any of the oil system has contact with the manifold, so the removal/replacement of that shouldnt have caused any to escape... any thoughts on this? could a bit of fuel in the bilge cause milk water? could the manifold refit have allowed some out? or, do i need to search for an oil leak? When turning her over there is nothing shooting/squirting out of anything visible... but i am concerned.

thanks in advance--you guys are the best.

Quinn

tommays · #2 (**permalink**) 08-26-2010

It only takes a bit of oil to make a lot of messy water

I have found depending on the motors mounting angle (mines near the max at 15 deg ) the rear seal and output flange tend to leak

As the combo of rust and the old seal getting hard cuts into the sealing area on the flange

Tempest · #3 (**permalink**) 08-26-2010

I've had fuel in my bilge water it didn't turn milky..just seperated.
Not sure about oil....doing that..

Does your ice box drain to the bilge? or do you pump it out to a sink...?
just a shot in the dark..

14432 · #4 (**permalink**) 08-26-2010

A little water will make a lot of oil milky in places like trailer wheel bearings and outboard outdrives but in this case you seem to have more water than oil. Could it be residue from bilge cleaner, soap, etc? I have milky water in the bilge of my powerboat sometimes and have no leaking fuel or oil.