The typical arrangement in an outboard the size you have consists of two access screws on the side of the shaft, one at about the level of the centerline of the prop, the other a few inches higher. There's no "dipstick" check. You'd usually pull the top screw (with the motor in its operating position) and see if any fluid appeared -- it's right at the upper level of the reservoir, so any that came out would be minimal. If there's fluid up to that level, you're good as far as quantity goes. However, since I suspect you're unsure how long it's been since it's been changed, I'd just change it. You don't want to grind any dirt or metal contaminants around in the gears, and that's all sitting down in the bottom right now. Easiest job in the world, costs next to nothing. You can get marine gearcase lubricant anywhere that sells marine products. You don't need much -- it comes in tubes about the size of a super-size toothpaste tube. The method is to first remove both screws (again, the motor is upright, as it would be if hanging on the transom). The lubricant tube will have a tapered cap to use as a filler. Stick the filler into the lower opening snugly and squeeze the tube slowly, until the level of the fluid rises to the level of the second, upper opening. (It will start pouring out, which is why you squeeze slowly.) DON'T REMOVE THE TUBE. Screw in the UPPER screw and secure it. Now you can remove the tube from the lower hole. The oil won't run out, because to do so a vacuum would have to be created in the space above it, and as the physics guys taught us, nature abhors a vacuum. Now replace the lower screw. Make sure they're both secure, and you're good to go for a very long time. The image at this link shows the kind of product you'll be looking for: http://www.defender.com/product.jsp?path=-1|311|296536|314204&id=181894 ************** Get the scoop on last night's hottest shows and the live music scene in your area - Check out TourTracker.com! (http://www.tourtracker.com?NCID=aolmus00050000000112)