Johnson tn 28 lower unit yellow metal gear lube

While doing research re: the rebuild of my TN 28, I read that care should be taken that the lower unit gear lube is compatible with "yellow metal." Does anyone know if the lower unit of a Johnson TN-28 has "yellow metal?"

14 Jan '13 F_R. I received a response to an e-mail sent to Lucas Oil Products Inc. I had asked if their Heavy Duty High Performance, SAE 80W-90 Gear Oil, Trans & Diff Lube was compatible with "yellow metal." They replied it was not. I wonder if this product is intended use for a lower unit?

Re: Johnson tn 28 lower unit yellow metal gear lube

It does.

I have also heard that old tale about non-compatable oil. I gotta say that in over 20 years of full time outboard wrenching, I've never witnessed any of that damage they talk about. Use any 80-90 weight modern outboard gear lube and don't worry about it.

EDIT: Well considering the response from Lucas, I guess I have to modify my thoughts. I'd still say I've never seen any damage, however that doesn't mean I have seen the Lucas oil used either. Anyhow, the bottom line is the same, use any modern 80-90 weight OUTBOARD gear lube in your TN and you will be fine. I have no idea what's in today's automotive oils.

"yellow metal"----? I'd have to assume they mean brass or bronze bearings. Just about all of the older small outboards have them, with a few exceptions.

Re: Johnson tn 28 lower unit yellow metal gear lube

F_R, would they be talking about the old 105 lube ??

Re: Johnson tn 28 lower unit yellow metal gear lube

F_R said:

It does.

I have also heard that old tale about non-compatable oil. I gotta say that in over 20 years of full time outboard wrenching, I've never witnessed any of that damage they talk about. Use any 80-90 weight modern outboard gear lube and don't worry about it.

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Please see the edit to my original post. Thank you.

Re: Johnson tn 28 lower unit yellow metal gear lube

Okay, what's " yellow metal " ??

Re: Johnson tn 28 lower unit yellow metal gear lube

Quote--"Please see the edit to my original post. Thank you. "

OK, I've edited mine too. Thanks for your research.

Re: Johnson tn 28 lower unit yellow metal gear lube

F_R, where did they use the old 105 lube ?? I remember my mentor yelling at me not to put regular lube in it but to use 105. Long time ago. LOL

Re: Johnson tn 28 lower unit yellow metal gear lube

I would assume they would not reccomend the non marine oil for outboard use. I believe that is what the OP is referring to. The outboard gear lube has additives to protect against water intrusion.

Re: Johnson tn 28 lower unit yellow metal gear lube

boobie said:

F_R, where did they use the old 105 lube ?? I remember my mentor yelling at me not to put regular lube in it but to use 105. Long time ago. LOL

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I dunno, British Sea Gull maybe????

Re: Johnson tn 28 lower unit yellow metal gear lube

No, this was an old Evin or John. I remember them selling it for these gear cases. Damn, it's hell to get old. LOL. I think Lubriplate put it out.

Re: Johnson tn 28 lower unit yellow metal gear lube

Oh well, Lubriplate 105 "Motor Assembly Grease" is the generally accepted modern day replacement for the old lower units that took "Mobil Outboard Motor Gear Grease", which is no longer made. That stuff was used in most outboards up till the 1950's, and beyond in some models. Pre-1950's motors didn't have good enough seals to hold fluid oil. OMC was one of the first to use 90W Hypoid oil. It took Merc awhile to do it.