Change lube after 4 hours?

[ricohman]

I changed the leg oil in my new boat (2011 Merc 4.3) after 17hrs, and it was put away for winter. I think I put 4 hours total on it this year. I had a look at the oil and it looks new, as it should. No contamination.
Can I forgo this step this year and just get right to the winterization of the engine?

 

[HT32BSX115]

Re: Change lube after 4 hours?

I changed the leg oil in my new boat (2011 Merc 4.3) after 17hrs, and it was put away for winter. I think I put 4 hours total on it this year. I had a look at the oil and it looks new, as it should. No contamination.
Can I forgo this step this year and just get right to the winterization of the engine?

Howdy,


After draining a little to check for water, I wouldn't hesitate to top it off and place it back in storage!

Just understand that Mercury's suggested maintenance indicates changing the engine and drive oil at the end of the season (or 100hrs whichever happens first)

If you had a lubrication related failure and they could prove you DID NOT change the oil when they recommended, they might try to deny a warranty claim. Granted, they'd be hard pressed to prove you didn't change it when required.

I wouldn't worry about it though..........


Regards,


Rick

 

[ricohman]

Re: Change lube after 4 hours?

Thats what I will do. Thanks for the advice!

 

[Bondo]

Re: Change lube after 4 hours?

Ayuh,.... Check the oil from the Drain plug on the bottom,...

If there's any water in it, that'll be the 1st thing outa the hole,...

If ya get Just clean oil, I wouldn't worry 'bout it,...

 

[ricohman]

Re: Change lube after 4 hours?

Yup, pulled that plug and just clean oil. Going to top it up and change it next season after I put some hours on this machine.
Thanks guys.