New Merc 4.3/MPI - Oil alternative?

[andy1canada]

Howdy,

Just broke the 20/hr mark on the new mill and it's time for the first oil change.

Wanted to touch base with you guy's to find out if there's a suitable oil/filter (that won't affect the new engine warranty) that is good for my engine other than what Merc recommends in my owners manual?

Living here on the Island they charge huge $$$ for Merc stuff and although I want the best for my engine there is often cheaper alternatives that are as good or better.

Taking her to the lake for a week and I need to do this pronto. I live on Vancouver Island, not far from Vancouver BC.


Thanks in advance for your time and trouble!

Cheers,
Terry

 

[Don S]

Re: New Merc 4.3/MPI - Oil alternative?

Use what ever you want since you aren't going to use what is recommended. Just make sure you change it and the filter at proper intervals.
If you were to re-read the recommendation in the manual if gives you some options on weights, plus recommends a straight weight.

 

[andy1canada]

Re: New Merc 4.3/MPI - Oil alternative?

Thanks Don!

Was hoping you'd be out there somewhere but didn't expect a reply that-quick. You're up with the birds same as me.

Missing Alaska yet?

Cheers,
Terry

 

[CampionGuy]

Re: New Merc 4.3/MPI - Oil alternative?

Not sure where you are but you may want to check with Dave at All Marine in Errington. He has some Merc oils in bulk, bring your own container.

 

[Chris1956]

Re: New Merc 4.3/MPI - Oil alternative?

Terry, You can use an aftermarket oil filter from Sierra, or the corredt auto oil filter for the year and model of the motor. I used to use the auto-type. Since you live in canada, you might like to use a Merc-recommended multiweight oil, especially if you plan to use the boat in temps below 40F. I always used Quicksilver 25-40 oil. It is quite pricy in comparison to straight weight SAE-30, but i felt it was worth it. Merc likely makes a synthetic oil for that motor, which will be more $, but worth considering, depending on it's usable temperature range.

 

[180shabah]

Re: New Merc 4.3/MPI - Oil alternative?

I think your choice in filter wil be more important than your choice of oil. The merc filter has a very high flow rate, filters that don't flow as well have a tendency to open the bypass valve when the pressure gets up there and thus offer no filtering. In a car this is no big deal, as it only happens for brief second or so, however in a boat running 4k all day long lack of filtration becomes an issue. So stick with a good high flow filter ike the Merc, Sierra or the equally expensive but easy to locate K&N($10-12 USD).