I recently purchased a 2000 Air Nautique DD. I have taken it about 10 times periodically checking the fluid levels. I leave the plug out during storage, and this weekend before putting the plug in prior to launch, I noticed about 1 drop of tranny fluid sitting outside of the plug hanging onto the hull, but no drops that had fallen on the concrete. I checked the fluid level and it seemed normal, and I dismissed it as some over flowed tranny fluid from the last change that got washed into the bilge, floated in the bilge and was probably a skim on top that just drained last...After running the boat this weekend, I checked the fluid level again and it looked a bit low, but I can not see any leaks. I took a rag an wiped under the transmission housing and picked up a slight amount of red fluid, but it doesn't appear that there was enough that it dropped down into the hull. When running this weekend, I did not notice any slipping or anything abnormal. So, my question is should I (1) Run this into the dealer immediately and potentially pay $105/hr to get it checked to minimize damage, or (2) Should I fill it up and see if I can locate the leak if any, assuming the small leak, if any, is not going to cause immediate problems as long as there is plenty of fluid. I guess the overall question is take it in immediately, or troubleshoot it a little more? Is troubleshooting/refilling a huge risk not worth taking? Also, I am in autsin, tx, so any recomendations on reputable service techs is appreciated.
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