How much oil?

[ryanr623]

Getting ready to change my oil. Just got the boat. 1976 mercruiser 120. How many quarts does it take? Any reccomended oil?

 

[tommays]

Re: How much oil?

It depends on how much you get out and which filter you use

You will be in the 4 to 5 quart range

I would pump it out ,replace the filter and put in 4 quarts and after running on the muffs see were the oil is on the stick with the boat level

 

[Fishermark]

Re: How much oil?

I don't remember exactly - but it seems like it takes five quarts with a new filter.

Regarding the type - get ready for comments like "Oh no! Another oil thread!" Things like that.

You will find quite a few opinions on oil - both in viscosity and brand.

The problem is your original owner's manual probably recommended a straight 30w oil. Mercruiser now has a multi grade they also recommend. DonS has a chart he posts from time to time showing current recommendations.

To paraphrase Bondo's signature "Any oil is better than no oil." Just make sure you change it regularly.

 

[ryanr623]

Re: How much oil?

I mean is there special boat oil, or can i use 10w30 for a car?

 

[Fishermark]

Re: How much oil?

Automotive oil is fine.

 

[Uraijit]

Re: How much oil?

I mean is there special boat oil, or can i use 10w30 for a car?

I wouldn't use 10w30. As was mentioned, straight 30 was what was originally recommended by Mercruiser. Now, I believe they're recommending 20w-40. I can't find 20W-40 out here, so I use Rotella 15W-40... I don't know if that's the best oil, but that's what I use...

 

[Fishermark]

Re: How much oil?

I don't know if that's the best oil, but that's what I use...

And so it begins.

 

[ryanr623]

Re: How much oil?

I wouldn't use 10w30. As was mentioned, straight 30 was what was originally recommended by Mercruiser. Now, I believe they're recommending 20w-40. I can't find 20W-40 out here, so I use Rotella 15W-40... I don't know if that's the best oil, but that's what I use...

Sorry to be so dumb, I know nothing of oil. Should i use 20w40 or straight 30?

 

[Fishermark]

Re: How much oil?