I don't know, I have to disagree with some of the sentiment being expressed here. Respectfully, of course. The thing is, a lot of guys are looking to cut corners so that they can afford to have a boat. Myself included. I fully understand what your saying about cheaping out, but sometimes the answer is it's the same parts for half the price.
We all know that vendors price things at what the market will bear. Generally the market for car parts will bear less than the market for boat parts. Does that mean that all car parts will work as well as boat parts, no, of course not, but some of them might. They can't just sell the same exact stuff at a marine store and charge more, so they would have to differentiate somehow. That is done by branding and certifications. To be clear I'm not saying that these certifications mean nothing, but I am saying that we can't trust the vendors to communicate honestly because it's not in their best interest.
It's sort of the point of the forum to exchange ideas, and hear what has worked for others. Could that lead someone down a bad path, maybe, but we are all responsible to research, and then make the best decision possible. My research consists largely of forums in addition to more technical sources.
In the end I need to get the very best value for my money. Otherwise I would just have to "sell the damn boat" and not have the opportunity to make those memories with my family. I've opted to keep my boat, make the best choices I can within my budget, and enjoy the time with my kids while they are still at home.
As far as the oil, It's a good brand, and it does indicate it's for marine use. If the weights are correct for your motor, and environmental considerations, I think you are good to go. If you are the kind of guy who keeps ahead of the curve then use it for a while and send a sample to Blackstone. At the very worst if testing comes back that it is degrading more quickly than it should change it out early. Or just use it in something else.
Oils are probably the worst thing to try to research, there is so much pseudo science out there, it's hard to make an educated decision. It's almost like trying to research which is the best brand of gasoline.
Anyway I do appreciate all of the help, and information I receive on this forum in particular. It is the consistent, knowledgeable posters that make it so valuable.
