tilt and trim oil

[rcountrybob]

i have an 1978 85hp merc with tilt and trim.would like to know what oil to put in tilt and trim. pump says to use m.s. grade s.a.e.20w,not sure what m.s. grade means. can i use non detergent s.a.e.20w motor oil ($3.00 a quart) or do i have to use the expensive oil that the marina wants to sell me????

 

[O.T.Water]

Re: tilt and trim oil

Just a suggestion, search user name RRitt and send him a private message. He is a tilt and trim expert. Good Luck, O.T.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: tilt and trim oil

You may use standard 5W-30 motor oil in the PTT unit. First check to make sure the PO did not use ATF. If he did, refill with Dextron ATF instead. You do not want to mix.

 

[Texasmark]

Re: tilt and trim oil

I know that over the years the oil spec has changed. Question is why? MS I would assume is Motor Supreme, meaning a detergent oil refined for heavy duty applications. Some of these specs were written prior to Merc marketing specialty lubricants, and the popularity of ATFs in autos and all.

My current engine ('02) is spec'd for Merc TT Fluid, or regular ATF if you don't have the brand fluid. That right there tells me that it's not all that critical. I guess the biggest problem would be with viscosity in cold weather operation where too high a viscosity (like 30w) could cause problems for the pump.

My 2c,

Mark

 

[ddrieck]

Re: tilt and trim oil

From Bob's Machine makers of some of the best high performance jack plates. I would think this should cross over to factory tilt trim units as well since they pump/cylinder assemblies are basically the same.


Hydraulic Jack Plate Maintenance

1. Keep hydraulic pump solenoids and connection terminals coated with Di-Electric grease to prevent any connections from being corroded. This should be done once to twice a year.

2. After several hours of use or if slide plate (Bearing Area) becomes dry it must be properly lubricated. Using the grease fittings located on each side of the jack plate rails; give each fitting a couple shots of waterproof marine grade grease while the plate is being moved up and down. Do not over lubricate. This should be done once or twice every 6 months.

3. Inspect hydraulic hose fittings around cylinder and pump for corrosion or leaking. Tighten or replace if leaking or corrosion occurs.

4. Keep the hydraulic pumps reservoir topped off. Fill the reservoir to the Max line. Run the plate up and down several times, then check reservoir and re-fill to Max line again. We recommend that you use a 20 weight (20W20) non-detergent motor oil in the pumps reservoir. This can be purchased at most auto part stores or directly through us.

5. Any problems or questions feel free to call our tech department.