The midsection generally doesn't require much attention, but does help attach the outboard to the transom of the boat and houses the outboard's exhaust, driveshaft and cooling water pipe.

The engine mounts have excessive wear and need replacing

If the engine mount rubbers are worn or perished you may noticed the outboard motor move or be heard to clunk as you shift from forward to reverse.

The exhaust muffler has corroded or its seal has failed

An outboard's exhaust travels from the bottom of the powerhead, through the muffler, down into the lowerunit then out through the propeller.