I have a 40 hp Merc which leaks water into the boat when i tilt to shallow. also it seems to take about 5 - 10 seconds for water to start pumping out the hole when i start it. does this sound like somethin i should worry about?

The 5-10 seconds for it to start peeing seems normal, the leaking into the boat....Explain a little more?

once i get to my destination i have to tilt up. (my favorite spot is very shallow) as the motor tilts it starts to spill water from the front of the cover it is more of a ticking than spilling but it does this for about 5 - 10 seconds for a guestimated 2+ cups of water spilling onto my floor. also if i am driving with it in shallow it spills out non stop till i either shut down or trim out. ?????????????????????????????????????????

this is a 40 hp mercury classic if that makes a difference.

Thanks for your reply hope this helps..

I have a '91 40hp mercury also. I dont have a leaking problem, the water pump does take at least 5-10 secs to start when I start the engine. As for your leaking problem, check the hose that water comes see if it is leaking in to the engine then spilling out on to your boat when you trim it up

thanks ill check that out