Force 120 bottom end rebuild questions

[sluggish]

Ok, so I have discovered that the bottom end is leaking as the oil is very milky. I am completely new to boats and outboards so I have a couple questions. My intent is to remove the bottom end and find/repair the leak in question. I have a complete seal and oring kit from the dealer and I have some mechanical skills so I am thinking that it cannot be that difficult. Am I wrong to think this way? Is there anything in particular I should watch out for when disassembling(ie. something that will fly off and leave me baffled as to how it goes back together) or is it a fairly straight forward unbolt, replace seals, bolt back together kind of affair? Just looking for some pointers for a newbie so I can get this thing on the water before summer is over. Thanks.

[lakerunner]

Before you tear it down be sure the seals are bad. Usual culprit is bad washers on drain and vent screws

[sluggish]

I just did that and those washers looked pretty bad. Replaced them and will run it for s bit and see if that may have been it. Seems to me the last owner just had either fuel or water pump replaced. If it was water pump, I would think he would have done the other seals too. Guess I will find out soon enough.

[cwag911]

Remove the prop and check behind it for fishing line that will cut the seal.

[sluggish]

Thanks. will have a look in there too.