Automotive 80-90 gear oil good or bad?

[btnfool]

I have alot of auto gear oil in the garage. Is it ok to use it for lower unit or is it a bad idea? Unit is a merc "A" drive used only in freshwater..

 

[Don S]

Re: Automotive 80-90 gear oil good or bad?

IF you think just any old gear lube laying around the garage is going to protect that very expensive dive as well as the manufacturers recommendation, then go for it.
Personally, I think a few dollars extra so I don't get drive damage is cheap insurance.
But, it's up to you

 

[lime4x4]

Re: Automotive 80-90 gear oil good or bad?

I use synthetic moble 1 gear lube from work. I work at a chevy auto dealership. So i can get it cheaper then what it would cost me for synthetic gear lube from the dealer.

 

[btnfool]

Re: Automotive 80-90 gear oil good or bad?

Ok Thanks Don, Money is not abig deal just a conveniance issue. Our local marine store is an hour away. So should I buy synthetic or regular? Is it ok to change over to synthetic after using conventional for so long? It's an older 1985 drive.

 

[Don S]

Re: Automotive 80-90 gear oil good or bad?

THe green colored Merc Hi Perfomance gear lube IS synthetic. It just has additives that allow the water to mix and stay in suspension should it get in your drive. Many syn. lubes will let the water seperate and sink to the bottom, not good when gears and bearings have to sit in water for a few weaks when you didn't know there was water in it.

 

[btnfool]

Re: Automotive 80-90 gear oil good or bad?

Its settled thanks again!!! I will take the trip and get the "Good Stuff"!!

 

[HT32BSX115]

Re: Automotive 80-90 gear oil good or bad?

When you get it, buy enough for 2 changes...that way you'll have it for next year.

Or, you can just get it in the spring from Boaters World or West Marine. They sell it online and will ship it right to your door!


Cheers,


Rick

 

[btnfool]

Re: Automotive 80-90 gear oil good or bad?

Thanks for all the help. I change my oil 2 times a year at least, nice to make sure no leaks arise! so I'll get alot of it. I'm going to travel to my "local" West Marine Friday, I need some other supplies too.