Lube for SP-A outdrive

Fishermark

Vice Admiral
Joined
Oct 19, 2003
Messages
5,617
I'm hoping some of the Volvo experts can help! I had always heard that the older Volvo outdrives, (before the SX drives), used engine oil in the outdrive instead of gear oil. In fact, I had read that there is a slinger type of pump in the lower unit that can shear off if you use the heavier gear oil.

Sure enough - here's what the manual calls for. (This is for drives up to and including the 290):

280-290%20lube_zpsuf7ysba8.jpg


Just to be sure, I checked the manual for my outdrive, the SP-A. Here's what the manual says:

SP%20lube_zpszsx8hinq.jpg


It calls for gear oil!

What gives?

I realize the simple answer is to go by what the manual says... but sometimes there are misprints. It describes the same type of pump system - then gives a different recommendation / requirement. For you old pros out there - what do you say? (Man, do i miss Don S at a time like this!)
 

Scott Danforth

Grumpy Vintage Moderator still playing with boats
Staff member
Joined
Jul 23, 2011
Messages
47,679
I have found that the API-GL5 is the recommended gear lube on both DP's and SP's. even the early 270, 280, etc that originally had SAE 30, the later manuals had gear lube.

hope this helps.

and yes, I also miss Don S for VP questions.
 
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