Water in trans oil?

[Russell45]

Did a general tune on both new Blasters last weekend. Oil change on the 88 showed what looked like water in the crankcase- the old oil was grey not black or brown, and sunk to the bottom of a measuring cup with some clean new oil in it already.

Short of swimming with it, how do you get water in the crankcase? How big a problem might I have here?

Bike starts/runs/idles great. Its is bone stock, have not yet done leakdown test, old sparkplug looked great. Any thoughts or guidance would be great.

 

[sporty982000]

Last time I mentioned how this could happen, it caused a bit of a debate.


here is a simple one, If the atvs sit outside, over winter, moisture and condensation can cause some small amount of sweating, inside the cases. That small amount of moisture, can leave you will a tiny amount of water in there.

Sporty

 

[JonS]

if it hasn't been swimming then i'd say moisture or condesation from being outside.

 

[Awk08]

the discolored oil you see is in the transmission, not the crankcase area, those 2 sections of the motor are seperated and never cross contaminate each other unless there is a cracked/busted case halve internally or leaking clutch side main bearing seal

the grey you see could very well just be worn clutch material, water contamination is usually a more light brownish, milky looking for oil, and pinkish looking if you use trans fluid

if it is in fact water, even just from condensation as mentioned above ?
a few quick changes with new oil after every few rides should clear it up,
unless there is an access for new water to enter.... the trans vent tube off or missing, or the top of the clutch cover gasket discombobulated are the likely places capable if leaking water in, without leaking oil out

 

[Russell45]

Thanks all. Yes, transmission, obviously, Duh. She was garaged all her life I believe, but maybe condensation. Will check trans vent tube, and do a couple oil changes. Clutch needs a look given age and use, likely worn.

 

[Awk08]

finding worn clutch material in the oil is common, especially when not changed often.
if it's not slipping, no need to dig into it, and it will thank you for a bath in new oil