Not sure if I've mixed gear lube?

[chiroken]

Hello,

I had my '07 Mercruiser 3.0L worked on mid-summer last year by a local professional marine shop that is no longer in business (retired?) and it included changing my gear lube. I am soon to be taking out the boat this summer and noticed the level was down 1/4". I have 3 bottles of gear lube, 2 are open being Quicksilver High Performance, the full bottle is Sierra Synthetic Gear Lubricant (I think this is intended for a volvo if it makes any difference?). These gear lubes came with the boat when I bought it used. I just finished one of the open bottles to top it off and now realize I don't know what the shop used last year. I'm reading to NOT mix HP with Premium gear lube. What if I've mixed them by adding 1/4"?

Any advice very much appreciated.

 

[Don S]

Re: Not sure if I've mixed gear lube?

What is in the reservoir, green? oil color?
If you aren't sure, why don't you just change your gear lube (including that in the reservoir) and put in the Hi Performance gear lube that should be in there and keep track of what you use and keep some extra on the boat.

 

[chiroken]

Re: Not sure if I've mixed gear lube?

I will check the colour, is each type different colours or can there be colour variation within the same type but between different manufacturers? I do keep gear lube/motor oil/power steering fluid on board in case they are needed but I've just realized now I don't know what was used for gear lube during maintenance last year.

 

[Rocky_Road]

Re: Not sure if I've mixed gear lube?

I will check the colour, is each type different colours or can there be colour variation within the same type but between different manufacturers? I do keep gear lube/motor oil/power steering fluid on board in case they are needed but I've just realized now I don't know what was used for gear lube during maintenance last year.

Your outdrive came with the Quicksilver High Performance (blueish-green color) and I am sure that is what your dealer used. Just check the lube in your engine mounted reservoir.

Your unopened bottle of Sierra is not so valuable as to risk your drive. You are correct that it is a big no-no to mix blends, and if this were mine I would donate the Sierra bottle to someone that may have a use for it. Or to the land fill....!

Happy boating!