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Most discussions surrounding marine engine oils are usually focused on 2-stroke engines because they’re the most popular. But watercrafts with 4 stroke engines need proper care and maintenance too.
This is why’ve decided to shift the discussion to focus on picking the right 4cycle marine grade engine oil for your boat. To keep your 4 cycle engine boat moving, regular maintenance of the unit is non-negotiable. And this starts with using the right engine oil for your watercraft.
After all, given the fact that boats are sizeable investments, you want to take the necessary steps to ensure it serves you for long. Note however that not any engine oil will do. The oil you pick must improve performance and overall lifespan of your boat.
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What to Consider Before Picking Your Oil
We’ll start by discussing the factors you need to consider before picking your marine oil. But before we go any further here’s what not to use: auto oil. Never, under no circumstance, must you substitute marine grade oil for auto oil.
Here’s why: these two are never to be used interchangeably because they have different anti-protection requirements. As a result, the latter will cause serious damage to your boat’s engine.
And now for the handy tips.
Use Oil Recommended by Your Manufacturer
For the same reasons mentioned above, avoid using oil on your watercraft that’s not recommended by your boat’s manufacturer. Scan through your boat’s manual to determine the exact oil that’s suited for your boat’s make and type.
Sure, opting for generic oils might be cheaper, but oils that aren’t recommended by your boat’s manufacturer could cause significant wear and tear of your engine.
Make Sure it’s Certified
Check if the engine oil has a National Marine Manufacturer’s Association (NMMA) logo. Why? Engine oils with this logo have undergone numerous quality checks by the relevant committees. Not only do they meet the marine engine’s needs but they’ll in no way harm it.
Synthetic vs Semi- synthetic
When selecting marine engine oils, you have the option to pick between synthetic and semi-synthetic. But which one is better?
Synthetic oils contain essential mineral oils only—with no substitutes. These oils go through vigorous testing to ensure that they’re superior for better engine performance. This is because impurities and substances that can potentially harm your boat’s engines are removed in the process.
On the other hand, semi-synthetic oils have a blend of small amounts of synthetic oil and other oils. Because of this mixture, they’re the cheapest between the two types.
So, which one is better?
Synthetic oils generally offer better performance especially at low temperatures compared to its semi-synthetic counterparts. Also, they’re the type to pick if you’ll be involved in high speed or competitive boat racing.
But with regards to which one you must buy, we recommend that you use the grade that’s recommended by your boat’s manufacturer as mentioned earlier.
Product Reviews
1. MERCURY Genuine 1 Gallon 4-Cycle Oil, 25W40-8M0078628
- Multi-viscosity 25W-40 oil formulated to eliminate thermal breakdown (no viscosity improvers necessary) under extreme temperatures and loads.
- Field-tested and proven in gas and diesel applications.
Here we have a product that can be used in all 4-stroke marine engines. Examples of boats you can use it on include the Mercruiser 3.0 and motor 60hp bigfoot.
This engine oil went through all the necessary quality checks and is therefore certified making it safe to use on your boat. You don’t have to worry about damaging your boat’s engine if you pick this product.
Who Is it For?
This engine oil is for people looking for a high quality product that’ll ensure optimum engine operation. Mercury is known for formulating superior products and this product is no exception. Because it’s considered highly exceptional by many users, be prepared to pay a little extra for it. It’s not the cheapest oil on the market but the price is definitely worth it.
People who expect nothing less than prompt service will be impressed with the manufacturer of this oil. You can expect fast delivery of the oil after ordering it. Many users have reported that it arrived well ahead of schedule.
In the event that you do have a query with regards to the product, you’ll also be responded to promptly.
What’s Included?
You’ll receive this oil in a gallon bottle.
Overview of Features
You’ll be happy to know that this is the most widely recommended Marine engine oil on the market. It’s been formulated for years by one of the leading manufacturers of engine oil in the world.
With this oil, you can expect maximum performance from your boat’s engine because the oil combines strength and viscosity. Both are crucial for engines’ operational efficiency. The oil features corrosion and wear protection properties to avoid any form of premature wear & tear of your boat’s engine.
Boating enthusiasts who’ve used the product have noted that you won’t experience any leaks whatsoever with this product. Because it’s synthetic blend oil, you’ll be getting fine oil that’s free from harmful substances.
You’ll appreciate the design of the bottle that allows for easy handling. The wide mouthed opening makes it easy to pour.
How to Use it
For best results with this oil, make sure you use it with a Mercury oil filter. Changing your boat’s engine oil is a relatively straight forward process that you can do yourself.
You can follow the following steps when using Mercury marine oil on your watercraft:
- Tilt the engine upwards
- Remove the oil-fill cup
- Add oil
- Don’t overfill
Pros
- High quality
- Versatile
- Certified
- Impressive customer service
Cons
- Expensive
2. Suzuki ECSTAR V7000 10W-40 Marine 4-Stroke Engine Oil, 2 Gal (990C0-01E30-GLNx2)
- Half-Case, 2x Gallons
This four stroke engine oil is synthetic blend; it’s made using a combination of synthetic lubricants and premium mineral oils. Even though it’s a synthetic blend type of engine oil, it won’t compromise your watercraft’s engine performance.
And the best part is that though it’s a high quality mixed oil, it’s relatively cheaper than other brands.
Who is it For?
As you’ve probably gathered this is the engine oil to pick if you own a Suzuki watercraft. It can be used in all Suzuki outboard watercrafts regardless of horsepower.
People looking for superior oil that’s affordable should purchase this brand. Though it’s considerably cheaper it won’t affect your engine’s performance or damage it. This is the oil to pick if you’re looking for a cost effective option when it comes to fuel preservation. It’s designed to ensure less fuel is burnt during use.
What’s Included?
Upon purchasing this brand of engine oil, you’ll also get two oil filters that are designed for use with this oil. Not many manufacturers include these filters so you’ll be happy to know that you don’t have to make separate purchases.
Overview of Features
As mentioned earlier, this product features high grade synthetic and mineral oils. This mixture is designed to withstand use even in the harshest environments.
When using your watercraft in sea waters, there’s a high risk of corrosion and damage of your boat’s engine. This is because sea water contains properties that are highly corrosive when brought into contact with your watercraft’s engine.
Thankfully, that’s something you don’t have to worry about if you pick this brand. It contains special additives designed to protect your watercraft’s engine in both salt and fresh water.
The manufacturer included advanced detergents when formulating the engine oil. As a result, you can expect the oil to also clean your engine parts during use.
Regardless of the weather you’re operating in, the performance of your engine won’t be compromised if you use this oil. Because it’s a high quality base oil, your engine will start easily even in cold weather.
You’ll be happy to know that the oil is NMMA certified. It’s made according to the watercraft’s industry standards and specifications.
How to Use it
To use this oil, we strongly advise that you follow the instructions as listed in the manual. It’s luckily a relatively straightforward process. You need to start by warming up the engine by starting your watercraft. Leave it idling for a few minutes and then switch it off.
Remove the oil filter and install the new one that’s included in the package. Then you must refill with the fresh marine four stroke oil. Make sure you use the amount as recommended by the manufacturer.
Pros
- Affordable
- Cleans engine
- Protects engine
Cons
- No filter
3. Quicksilver 8M0081910 Oil Change Kit – 15-20 HP Engines 4 stroke
- Quicksilver launches new convenient oil change kits to make it easy for Customers to change their oil
- Each kit contains all the items needed to change your oil in Select Mercury 4-Stroke Outboards
Quicksilver is known as one of the leading manufacturers of marine engines. With over five years of experience in designing engines, it’s safe to trust them when they say they have formulated the right engine oil to you use on your watercraft.
By purchasing this product, you not only get engine oil but a full oil change kit. You don’t have to make additional purchases; the product has everything you need to get you started. Quicksilver engine oil promises the user quality and superior performance.
Who is it For?
This engine kit is ideally suited for people who are looking for a convenient and cost effective product for changing oil. Pick this oil kit whether you’re a professional mechanic or not. You’ll find the kit very easy to use thanks to the straightforward instructions stated in the manual.
This product is versatile enough to be used on selected Mercury watercraft engines. So, pick this product if you own a Mercury outboard watercraft.
By using this oil, your engine will perform smoothly compared to using regular oils. And you’ll appreciate that it’s also very affordable. This makes it the oil to pick for users who are shopping on a budget but want value for their money.
What’s Included?
As highlighted earlier, this kit comes with everything you need for the oil changing process. Upon un-boxing the package you’ll find:
- The Quicksilver marine four stroke engine oil
- 1 oil filter
- Drain plug seal
- Instruction guide
Overview of Features
One of the key features of Quicksilver engine oil is that it’s formulated using the manufacturer’s Flagship Protection formula. This formula contains superior anti-wear properties that are designed to protect your engine from premature damage.
The oil can provide your engine with up to 33% wear protection to prolong the life of your watercraft. With this oil, you can expect optimum engine operation because it guarantees high performance. The same oil will also improve engine reliability.
This engine oil is known to hold its viscosity for long when compared to other brands. This means the oil is designed to reduce friction in engines for longer periods of time. In addition, starting your boat’s engine will be quick and easy thanks to the viscosity level.
Compared to most engine oils, this brand promises to offer high engine protection to prolong its operational life. Products manufactured by Quicksilver undergo various quality checks to meet the manufacturer’s standards and specifications.
Note however that this product is available in only one quart quantities.
How to Use it
We’ll point out that this oil will work best for operating temperatures that are above 40ᵒ. If you operate your watercraft in cooler temperatures then you might need another oil and filter.
The instructions on how to use this oil are clearly printed on the package’s exterior.
Pros
- Protects engine
- Improve engine performance
- Affordable
Cons
- Not ideal in cool temperatures
4. Honda Marine 08207-10W30MFC-W Genuine 4-Stroke SAW 10W-30 Motor Oil (Case of 12 Quarts)
- Genuine OEM Honda Parts
This marine engine oil was formulated for genuine OEM Honda parts. Most customers only have positive things to say about this product with regards to performance.
Because it’s designed specifically for Honda watercrafts, it meets the specific standards of the make’s boat engines. Chances of your boat’s engine being damaged if you use this product are slim.
Who is it For?
Needless to say, if you own a Honda Marine, this is the engine oil for you. As we mentioned at the beginning of the article, it’s always advisable to use engine oil that’s recommended for your specific watercraft for optimum performance.
By purchasing this product you’ll be getting twelve quarts in each case. This makes it the ideal brand for professional boat mechanics who service a large number of Honda watercrafts.
Alternatively, Honda boat owners who prefer bulk buying can opt for this. Buying in bulk is always a cheaper option as opposed to purchasing individual products. So, consider this product if you’re looking for a cost effective option.
This engine oil is ideal for users who expect prompt service delivery from manufacturers. Not only will you receive the oil in no time, but queries are handled promptly.
What’s Included?
Unlike some products on our list that come with filters and the entire changing kit, you only get the oil if you pick this brand.
Overview of Features
Since it’s a 10w engine oil it means you can expect superior performance if you use this brand. This is because it’s high grade hydraulic oil that’s made using advanced base oils. You don’t have to worry about this oil damaging your engine parts. In actual fact, using this product will significantly increase your boat’s operational life.
This oil also contains special additives that are designed for heavy equipment such as your boat. It’s formulated using detergents that clean the engine as you ride your watercraft.
This Honda engine oil also contains inhibitors that are designed to prevent any form of oxidation happening to your boat’s engine. As a result, this minimizes corrosion and rust formation which are known to be very detrimental to your boat’s engine.
How to Use it
You can use this oil in both low and high operating temperatures. This means the boat will perform effectively whether it’s summer or winter. Don’t let the change in season stop you from enjoying your boat ride. This is made possible because of the viscosity levels of the oil.
Aside from using it regardless of weather conditions, it can also be used for extended operation times. You can enjoy riding your watercraft for longer when using this oil.
Pros
- Cost effective
- Cleans engine
- Used in any temperatures
- Corrosion & rust resistant
Cons
- No filter included
Final Words
Your watercraft requires proper care and maintenance. And the only way you can expect your boat to last long is if you not only service it regularly but also use the correct maintenance tools.
This is why we can’t over-emphasize the importance of picking the correct engine oil for your boat as recommended by your manufacturer. Pay attention to factors such as the viscosity rating, wear resistant properties and cleaning abilities. Ideally the engine oil you pick must enhance your boat’s engine performance, not hinder it.
It’s evident that if you pick the right marine oil, not only are you guaranteed optimum engine performance, but you’ll also increase its lifespan. With that said, from our list which oil will you pick? Pick the right engine oil and you’ll enjoy your boat rides for longer.
Last update on 2021-08-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
