Page 1 of 1

oil for merc 4 stroke

Posted: Fri Aug 24, 2012 9:06 am
by killerkernrich
does anyone use regular oil in their outboard merc or do they stick with merc oil???

Re: oil for merc 4 stroke

Posted: Fri Aug 24, 2012 9:10 am
by GregF
I used a name brand auto oil in mine for 10 years, 3075 hours with no problems. Just be sure you keep it fresh.

I actually ran HD30 the whole time but it never really gets that cold (less than 70-75) here that often and if it does we are not on the boat.

Re: oil for merc 4 stroke

Posted: Fri Aug 24, 2012 10:32 am
by killerkernrich
I may have to stick with merc oil since I still am on warranty???

Re: oil for merc 4 stroke

Posted: Fri Aug 24, 2012 10:36 am
by captainjack
I have ran merc since new however I am switching to Amsoil this winterizing. My warranty ends in Feb so I waited till this year 45 a gallon. Glad to be done with that!

Re: oil for merc 4 stroke

Posted: Fri Aug 24, 2012 11:42 am
by Bamaman
You don't have to run Merc. oil.

My Yamaha boat mechanic said to just use a good brand of regular 10W30, and it'll do well. And, if you just need to change the oil once per year, do it in the Fall before putting the boat up for the Winter.

I went onto Fram.com to look up the oil filters that are the same as Yamaha outboard's filters. You'd be surprised how many marine oil filters are the same as motorcycle and automobile filters. I don't necessarily favor Fram filters, however their website has great cross reference info that'll allow you to purchase filters at discount auto parts stores and save big $.

Re: oil for merc 4 stroke

Posted: Fri Aug 24, 2012 2:03 pm
by brumbyvet.1044
I've always used the West Marine brand. It has exactly the same specs as the Merc oil and it costs less.

Re: oil for merc 4 stroke

Posted: Fri Aug 24, 2012 2:34 pm
by killerkernrich
thanks to all

Re: oil for merc 4 stroke

Posted: Fri Aug 24, 2012 4:17 pm
by lakerunner
I used Castrol 10W30