Forgive my ignorance

tk1891

Cadet
Joined
Jun 29, 2010
Messages
10
I apologize up front for asking such a stupid question, but how in the h*** do I change the oil in my Mercruiser? I recently purchased it (my first I/O) and wanted to look at the basics (oil change, tune ups etc...). I can barely feel something that may be a drain plug but can't see it. I thought I read on here where you can pump the oil out (in fact maybe it was designed that way). If this is true where do I connect the pump tube to (dipstick tube maybe???), also do they sell a kit of some kind for this? Also, the only oil fill I can find is the PCV valve, is this correct? To be honest the spark plugs didn't look like a breeze to get to either, oh well for another topic (1 problem at a time). The boat is a 1988 Maxum with a 305 V8. Thanks for the help, and again sorry for the ignorance. (BTW-The oil looks very clean but eventually I will need to service it)
 

tk1891

Cadet
Joined
Jun 29, 2010
Messages
10
Re: Forgive my ignorance

Thanks for the help and info. You said the "size of a garden hose" My dipstick tube is very small (like in a vehicle) is this common?
 

the man

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
May 26, 2007
Messages
182
Re: Forgive my ignorance

Depending on the boat, often there is a hose attached to your drainplug on the transom that, from the pan, will drain your oil. Also, you can buy suction devices that will pull the oil out through the dipstick tube. West Marine sells a couple different types.
 

Philster

Captain
Joined
Sep 15, 2009
Messages
3,344
Re: Forgive my ignorance

You suck the oil out the dipstick tube, either through a nice fitting (if it has one) or just right out the dipstick tube.

These oil change pumps (suckers) work on cars, too. Some work great. Some... not so much. Maybe someone will pop in with reviews. My neighbor has one and loves to work on boats. I don't know which brand he has.
 

ChrisCraftJohnny

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Oct 7, 2009
Messages
187
Re: Forgive my ignorance

West Marine sells a nice unit for $60.00
Sometimes on sale for $50.00
Works perfect. Takes about 20 min to suck out 5 quarts.
Also great for other fluid removal jobs.

Good luck
 

tk1891

Cadet
Joined
Jun 29, 2010
Messages
10
Re: Forgive my ignorance

Guys, thx for all the replies, was I correct in my assumption of the oil fill?
 
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