Don...I myself enjoy reading them for it really goes to show that Merc is not the only one brand to go. Yeah, I could see for warranty purposes, but after that it becomes a "dog eat dog" world of competitiveness. I've read awhile back about oil threads and mentioning or "lack of" a engine failing due to the type of oil used. Preventive maintenance is the key here....if lube companies state that their products are specifically made for marine applications, they must be ok regardless of the name brand. I'm sure there are different qualities (good, better and best), but would say that the "good" would not ruin an outdrive or engine for that matter if properly maintained! So as you say ---
I use (__Fill in the blank___) and it works perfect.