MerCruiser 3.0 MPI, Owner'S Manual

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Section 4 - Specifications
90-899883272 MARCH 2008 Page 47
IMPORTANT: When operating a Mercury MerCruiser engine on gasoline containing
alcohol, storage of gasoline in the fuel tank for long periods should be avoided. Long
periods of storage, common to boats, create unique problems. In cars alcohol‑blend fuels
normally are consumed before they can absorb enough moisture to cause trouble, but
boats often sit idle long enough for phase separation to take place. In addition, internal
corrosion may take place during storage if alcohol has washed protective oil films from
internal components.
Engine Oil
For optimum engine performance and maximum protection, use the following oil:
Application Recommended Oil
All MerCruiser engines Mercury MerCruiser Full‑Synthetic Engine Oil, 20W‑40, NMMA FC‑W rated
IMPORTANT: Lubrication requirements for catalyzed engines differ from the requirements
for non‑catalyzed engines. Some marine‑grade lubricants contain high levels of
phosphorus, which can damage the catalyst system on MerCruiser engines. Although
these high‑phosphorus lubricants may allow acceptable engine performance, exposure
over time will damage the catalyst. Catalysts damaged by lubricants containing high levels
of phosphorus may not be covered by the MerCruiser Limited Warranty.
If Mercury MerCruiser Full‑Synthetic, 20W‑40 oil is unavailable, use the following
lubricants, listed in order of recommendation. If you are servicing a catalyst engine, use
these for short periods of time only.
1. Mercury/Quicksilver 25W‑40 Synthetic Blend, NMMA FC‑W–rated 4‑cycle MerCruiser
oil
2. Mercury/Quicksilver 25W‑40, NMMA FC‑W–rated 4‑cycle MerCruiser oil
3. Other recognized brands of NMMA FC‑W–rated 4‑cycle oils
4. A good‑grade, straight‑weight detergent automotive oil according to the last row of the
operating chart below.
NOTE: We do not recommend non‑detergent oils, multi‑viscosity oils (other than as
specified), non FC‑W–rated synthetic oils, low‑quality oils, or oils that contain solid
additives.
Mercury Full-Synthetic MerCruiser Engine Oil, 20W-40, NMMA FC-W rated
MerCruiser/Quicksilver 25W-40 Synthetic Blend, NMMA FC-W rated 4-cycle MerCruiser oil
Other recognized brands of NMMA FC-W rated oils
SAE 20W
SAE30W
SAE40W
AIR TEMPERATURE
ORDER OF PREFERENCE
(32° F)
0° C
(50° F)
10° C
32878
Mercury/Quicksilver 25W-40, NMMA FC-W rated 4-cycle MerCruiser oil