Propeller Shaft Oil Seal – Fits Mercury Marine 30-150 HP Outboards (Replaces 26-70081, 8M0205729)
This propeller shaft oil seal is designed for a precise fit on a wide range of Mercury Marine and Honda Marine outboard engines. It serves as a crucial component for maintaining the integrity of the gear housing by preventing oil leaks and water intrusion.
This component is a direct replacement for Mercury Marine part numbers 26-70081 and 8M0205729, Sierra 18-2053, Honda 91255-ZW1-003, GLM 85530, Mallory 9-76115/9-76116, and Force 26-70081.
-
Primary Use: Seals the propeller shaft at the gear housing to prevent lubricant leakage.
-
Installation: Installs externally into the gear housing via a press-fit connection.
-
Material: Constructed from a durable rubber compound with a metal case for structural integrity.
Part Number Cross-Reference
Use this table to confirm equivalent part numbers across OEM and aftermarket brands.
| Brand |
Part Number |
Superseded By |
| Mercury Marine |
26-70081 |
8M0205729 |
| Honda Marine |
91255-ZW1-003 |
|
| Sierra |
18-2053 |
|
| GLM |
85530 |
|
| Mallory |
9-76115 / 9-76116 |
|
| Force |
26-70081 |
|
Compatible Engine Models
Confirm your engine model/year in the table below. For Mercury owners, here’s a guide to help you identify your engine’s serial/model: Mercury Serial Number Guide. You can also review exploded diagrams to verify part numbers: Mercury Parts Diagrams & Catalog.
For Honda applications, confirm your engine model/year in the table below.
Mercury/Force Marine Applications
| Brand |
Model |
Rated HP |
Stroke |
Years |
OEM Part No. |
Notes |
| Mercury |
30 HP Carb 3 CYL |
30 |
2-Stroke |
1978-2005 |
26-70081/8M0205729 |
|
| Mercury |
40 HP (Carb/EFI) |
40 |
2-Stroke & 4-Stroke |
1978-2018 |
26-70081/8M0205729 |
Includes 3 & 4 CYL variants |
| Mercury |
45 HP BODENSEE/JET |
45 |
2-Stroke |
1978-2005 |
26-70081/8M0205729 |
|
| Mercury |
50 HP (3 & 4 CYL) |
50 |
2-Stroke & 4-Stroke |
1978-2018 |
26-70081/8M0205729 |
Includes BIGFOOT models |
| Mercury |
55 HP (3 CYL) |
55 |
2-Stroke |
1978-2005 |
26-70081/8M0205729 |
|
| Mercury |
60 HP (3 & 4 CYL) |
60 |
2-Stroke & 4-Stroke |
1978-2018 |
26-70081/8M0205729 |
Includes BIGFOOT models |
| Mercury |
65 JET |
65 |
2-Stroke |
1978-2005 |
26-70081/8M0205729 |
|
| Mercury |
70 HP (3 CYL) |
70 |
2-Stroke |
1978-2005 |
26-70081/8M0205729 |
|
| Mercury |
75 HP (3 & 4 CYL) |
75 |
2-Stroke & 4-Stroke |
1978-2018 |
26-70081/8M0205729 |
Includes 1.5L models |
| Mercury |
80 HP (3 & 4 CYL) |
80 |
2-Stroke & 4-Stroke |
1978-2005 |
26-70081/8M0205729 |
Includes 800 and JET models |
| Mercury |
90 HP (3 & 6 CYL) |
90 |
2-Stroke & 4-Stroke |
1978-2018 |
26-70081/8M0205729 |
Includes Carb & EFI |
| Mercury |
100 HP (4 CYL) |
100 |
2-Stroke & 4-Stroke |
1978-2005 |
26-70081/8M0205729 |
Includes EFI models |
| Mercury |
115 HP (4 & 6 CYL) |
115 |
2-Stroke & 4-Stroke |
1978-2018 |
26-70081/8M0205729 |
Includes EFI models |
| Mercury |
120 HP |
120 |
2-Stroke |
1995-1997 |
26-70081/8M0205729 |
|
| Mercury |
125 HP (4 CYL) |
125 |
2-Stroke |
1978-2005 |
26-70081/8M0205729 |
|
| Mercury |
V-150 Series |
150 |
2-Stroke |
1978-2005 |
26-70081/8M0205729 |
Includes Magnum, Marathon, XR-2 variants |
| Force |
50-150 HP Models |
50-150 |
2-Stroke |
1978-1999 |
26-70081 |
|
Honda Marine Applications
| Brand |
Model |
Rated HP |
Stroke |
Years |
OEM Part No. |
| Honda |
BF75 |
75 |
4-Stroke |
1994-2018 |
91255-ZW1-003 |
| Honda |
BF90 |
90 |
4-Stroke |
1994-2018 |
91255-ZW1-003 |
Technical Specifications
| Specification |
Value |
| Product Type |
Propeller Shaft Oil Seal |
| Installation Location |
External, gear housing |
| Connection |
Press-fit |
| Housing Material |
Rubber with metal case |
| Housing Color |
Black |
| Dimensions |
OD: 45.0 mm (1.754"), ID: 30.0 mm (1.185"), Width: 9.1 mm (0.360") |
| Other Technical Attributes |
Spring-loaded lip seal |
Package Contents
- 1 x Propeller Shaft Oil Seal (Replaces 26-70081 / 8M0205729)
Installation Guide
-
Drain Gear Lube: Position a drain pan under the lower unit and remove the upper and lower gear lube drain screws to drain the oil completely.
-
Remove Propeller: Remove the cotter pin, propeller nut, and any washers to slide the propeller off the shaft.
-
Access Seal: Depending on your model, you may need to remove the bearing carrier housing to access the old seal.
-
Remove Old Seal: Carefully pry the old oil seal out of its seat using a seal puller or flat-head screwdriver. Be careful not to score or damage the housing surface.
-
Clean Housing: Thoroughly clean the seal seating area in the gear housing to remove any old sealant, corrosion, or debris.
-
Install New Seal: Lightly coat the outer metal surface of the new seal with marine grease. Using a socket or seal driver that matches the seal's outer diameter, gently and evenly press the new seal into place until it is fully seated.
-
Reassemble: Reinstall the bearing carrier, propeller, and associated hardware.
-
Refill Gearcase: Fill the lower unit with fresh marine gear lubricant according to your engine's service manual. Install new gaskets on the drain screws and tighten securely.
Troubleshooting & FAQ
Q: How can I be sure this oil seal will fit my specific outboard model?
A: The best way is to match your engine's OEM part number to the ones listed in our cross-reference table. You can also review the detailed compatible engine models table. For Mercury owners, we provide a link to a serial number guide to help you identify your engine precisely.
Q: A customer review mentioned a size issue with a 2000 Mercury XR6 150 HP. Is this a common problem?
A: We have verified the dimensions (OD: 45.0mm, ID: 30.0mm, Width: 9.1mm) across multiple sources to ensure accuracy. The issue reported appears to be an isolated case, as this seal fits a wide range of V-150 series engines from 1978-2005. Always double-check your old part's dimensions before ordering. Our parts are manufactured to strict tolerances, but variations in older engine castings can sometimes occur.
Q: What are the common signs of a failing propeller shaft seal?
A: The most common symptoms are visible gear lube leaking from around the propeller shaft area or discovering a milky, gray color in your gear lube when you drain it, which indicates water intrusion.
Q: How often should this seal be replaced?
A: It is recommended to inspect your propeller shaft seals during every routine lower unit service (typically annually or every 100 hours). Replace them immediately if you notice any signs of leaking or damage. Many technicians replace them as a preventative measure whenever the gearcase is disassembled.
Q: OEM vs. Aftermarket?
A: This listing is an aftermarket replacement part (not an OEM component). We build to OEM specifications using comparable-grade materials. Production is done in an ISO9002-certified facility, and each batch is inspected for consistent performance.
Q: How fast do you ship and how much does it cost?
A: We offer fast global shipping—typically 5–15 days worldwide—and standard shipping is free. Expedited options are available at checkout depending on your location.
Q: What is your warranty and return policy?
A: This product includes a 1-year warranty against manufacturing defects under normal use. If something goes wrong, contact our support team with your order details. Returns are accepted within our standard return window (unused & in original condition); please see our policy page or reach out for instructions.
Important Notes
- Verify that the product images and specifications match your original part. If discrepancies exist—even if your model is listed—do not proceed with the purchase.
- This product is an aftermarket replacement part and is not an OEM component.
- Professional installation is recommended to ensure safety and optimal performance.
Why Choose JLM MARINE?
-
Quality Assured: As a trusted manufacturer for over 20 years, we supply top marine brands globally.
-
Fast Global Shipping: Free delivery worldwide in 5–15 days.
-
Direct from Manufacturer: Competitive pricing without compromising quality.