6 hp longshaft query

[magic232]

Hi,
Just bought a 6 hp longshaft off ebay and have a query regarding its exhaust. There seems to be exhaust noise,smoke and perhaps water travelling up near the shift lever shaft down near the the lower steering hinge. a mechanic I asked reckons this is normal but I have my doubts. Its quite noisey as this area is not always under water. Most exhaust seems to come from this area when going slow but out the prop as it should when going faster. Is this all good ?

cheers

[boats.net]

Some exhaust can come out around shaft shaft just above gearcase but that is normally under water at idle. You can remove lower unit and inspect muffler for damage.