OMC Cobra Gear Lube, what to use?

[rybad]

Sorry to ask this, as I'm sure its been beaten down already. I did do a search in the forum, but not finding a clear answer.

Here is my version of the question:

I have an 89 Four Winns 285. Twin OMC 5.7 with Cobra outdrives. I'v owned the boat for about 5 years. I have always used the OMC(J/E) Hi-Vis as gear lube. Two years ago, I had one lower unit resealed, and was going to buy the Ultra to put in, and the mechanic said I should use the standard Hi-Vis for that drive year (I'm not sure if he was recommending against using the Ultra, or just letting me know I didnt "need" the Ultra, and could save a few bucks by getting the Hi-Vis).

So, do I use the OMC (or J/E equelivent) Hi-Vis, or can I use the Ultra? I dont care about the price, I just want whats best for the drive, and you know they are expensive to replace, and getting scarc to find.

Also, what are the thoughts of like using Mobile 1 full synthetic gear oil ? Would that be better, or not recommended.

I just want to know what is the best to uses regardless (almost) of the cost.

Thanks for your input.

 

[Boatin Bob]

Re: OMC Cobra Gear Lube, what to use?

I also have a pair of 89 Cobra's and have always used Hi-Vis if I can get, have used the ultra a couple of times no problem except it costs more, a couple of guys at the marina with Cobra's use the Merc Ultra.

 

[Gary H NC]

Re: OMC Cobra Gear Lube, what to use?

CRC makes Hi-Vis gear lube that is the direct replacement for the OMC lube.
I got mine from Napa,They had to order it.
I had a few bottles left over and now use it in my outboard.

You can get it online also,
http://www.foreandaftmarine.com/CRC.htm

 

[rybad]

Re: OMC Cobra Gear Lube, what to use?

Yeah, I have used the Ultra too. I think for the gallon, it was only like $2-3 more than the Hi-Vis.

I guess I was wondering if anyone knew of any problem using the Ultra in an 89 Cobra drive. For example, maybe the older drive does not like the smaller molecule structure of the full synthetic oil, and thats why the mechanic told me I can just use the Hi-Vis.

Any thought on that, or on something like Mobile 1 ?? I only ask about the Mobile 1 cause I think that guys on bobtheoilguy.com swear by Mobile 1 (at least for engine oil).

 

[Mkos1980]

Re: OMC Cobra Gear Lube, what to use?

I've used Merc HI-PO lube in cobra drives before with good results.

 

[marada1]

Re: OMC Cobra Gear Lube, what to use?

The guy that rebuilt my 1990 Cobra drive is a very experienced Mercruiser, OMC, and Volvo mechanic. He recommends Mercury High Performance Gear Lube for all models so that's what I am running.

 

[Don S]

Re: OMC Cobra Gear Lube, what to use?

Merc Hi Performance will work perfectly. Been using it for years (in customer drives) with no problems. NOTE: Those same customers were yearly customers for yearly maintenance.

 

[pra100]

Re: OMC Cobra Gear Lube, what to use?

I switched to Amsoil Synthetic in mine.Love it.