2-Cycle Oil Quality vs Price

[urbnsr]

Yep - I have another question. And I have been searching the forum for answers to my questions, but I'm not finding more than bits and pieces each time.

Going through the service manual for my 1999 Johnson 70HP 2-stroke, I find that they recommend the Johnson TC-W3 outboard lubricant. Not surprisingly. If not Johnson brand, at least TC-W3 rated. I find regular oil, synthetic blend and full synthetic. If I stay in any one of these categories as long as TC-W3 rated, I find a wide price difference from one brand to another at the same store. Some are offered as 3 each 1 gallon sets, other times, just a gallon. But the per gallon price fluctuates quite a bit.

If I stay with TC-W3, do I really need to worry as long as it's a name brand? Also, I don't know the oil type (regular/synthetic blend, full synthetic) presently in use. A marina recommends running current supply down very low before picking a blend type (and staying with it) to minimize possible mixing types.

I think I have a well cared for motor. I want to keep it running smoothly as long as possible. I don't mind spending more on the oil, but only if there are benefits. Maybe the high dollar full synthetic runs cleaner with less deposits. That would be worth it to me.

Hey - It's been since 1979 or so that I had a 2 cycle engine larger than a weed-wacker. And I didn't care so much at that age.

Your opinions are appreciated.

[SamiGuy]

I am by no way an expert, just my $ .02 worth. Having had several outboards and few PWC's, I do know that the most important part is the TCW3 rating. I have used everything from store brand to full synthetic. I used Amsoil ( here come the sighs) in my last two and had NO problem that were oil related. I did lose an oil line on one PWC and fried a cylinder wall with seize. I truly believe that if I had not had the oil I had in, the whole motor would have crapped out. Just my opinion. As far as a 2-stroke, I look for low smoke and value. Smoke is objective and value is subjective. Just find what you like with a decent reason and stick with it. I am also a HUGE proponent of fuel stabilizer, especially if it's a premix.
Good luck and let the experts chime in!!
Sami

[ralph]

TCW3 is the key. When I had a smoker I really didn't have a brand preference but it seems I bought mainly Penzoil

[Coldbrew]

Last year Bass Pro had a deal on Mystik w/TC-W3 designation. Buy 3 gallons for 12.99 each and get a 8.00 per gallon rebate. Needless to say I couldn't pass it up. I found it ran great in my motor with very little smoke and the plugs looked great in the fall.

I paid 45 bucks for my first gallon at the marina when I bought the boat.....

[teecro]

TCW3 is the key. When I had a smoker I really didn't have a brand preference but it seems I bought mainly Penzoil

I can still recall my Dad using TEXACO SAE-30 Non-Detergent Motor Oil in our first Evenrude 55/Triple. Sort of dating myself here?

[MH Hawker]

any of the TCW3 rated oils will work just fine the only difference is how much it may smoke, the high priced oils wont smoke as much, personally i use the walmart super tec oil at 12.50 a gallon

[BoatCop]

Old Coast Guard days, the MILSPEC (Military Specification) for 2 strokes was basic 9250 oil. Essentially plain old 30 weight, high detergent oil.

While working at Naval Engineering San Diego I re-wrote the engineering manual to require TC-W3. If for no other reason than the reduced harmful emissions from the burning oil and improved upper end lubrication.

If my engine was under warranty, I'd use exactly what the manufacturer recommended. Not because their oil is better than any other, but to remove ANY slight possibility of them denying a claim. I know that in the end they can't deny it, but it would remove any stumbling block and maybe get it settled sooner.

Out of warranty, whatever meets the specs and is on sale.

[urbnsr]

Thanks for the input, everyone. I appreciate it. I wasn't sure and wanted your opinion.