Lower Unit Gear Oil Question

[mrmamiller]

I have a 1986 Johnson 110 HP motor and have just drained the gear case for winterization. The oil came out dark green. This is the second time this has happened, last time being 3 years ago. The oil smells normal and there are no particulates in the oil nor any water. I am wondering if the color is coming from some effect of using a GL-5 rating synthetic blend gear lube. I started reading that some additives in GL-5 can dissolve brass/bronze bushings. (The lower unit has been pressure tested and it is assumed that all seals are good).

I am wondering if I should avoid GL-5 for my oil change? I have also read about other undesirable effects from using GL-5, but am not sure if they are true. Finding the proper oil in my area can be a real problem.

Any suggestions on the correct oil to use? Johnson/Evinrude products are not readily available in my area and I need to fill my gear case before winter storage in 4 days.

 

[Boss Hawg]

Re: Lower Unit Gear Oil Question

Just changed mine again with Citgo Marine Plus gear oil- It went in kind of dark green. Trying to think of any i've used that doesn't start out dark green but i've used the same for several yrs?
BTW- Mines a '87 110 - great motor

 

[mark1961]

Re: Lower Unit Gear Oil Question

Bottom line, if its not approved for marine gearcases dont use it.....most of the major oil suppliers have products in this segment so an appropriate product shouldnt be difficult to obtain......they usually all come out discoloured (black) if left in for few seasons.

 

[boobie]

Re: Lower Unit Gear Oil Question

Use any gear oil if it's rated for marine use. Even Walmart has it.

 

[mrmamiller]

Re: Lower Unit Gear Oil Question

Finally found a gear oil which specified for marine use. Found Pennzoil at Advance and that's what I'll use. Walmart had nothing which specified for marine use. Strange that out of 10 brands I found, only Pennzoil spec'd marine use. And, as expected, GL-5 is the only spec available. I'll be curious about the color of the oil on my next change.

 

[Bamaman1]

Re: Lower Unit Gear Oil Question

Our Walmart carries Pennzoil for marine use, and it's half what the stuff at a boat dealership costs--less than $6 quart. I think it's more of a cream color gear grease.

Walmart carries a full line of marine oils and grease--including 4 stroke filters. I found them on the end of the motor oil gondola and some others over in the boat accessory section in the Sporting Goods dept.