Lower unit lube question

[Scott K]

I have a 2002 Yamaha 115 4 stroke motor. I didnt change lower unit lube last fall, because I didnt have a chance to then I stored it. Anyhow I normally buy the 1 quart jug with a pump on it from the dealer, well this year I picked up a tube from a hardware store and the brand was Citgo lower unit lube. The stuff I usually use is a gold color, the citgo stuff was a bluish color and smelled like it was just 80/90.

My question is, is the Citgo stuff ok to run in it, or should I drain it out and get the other gold colored stuff I usually put in there from the dealer?

[boatfixer]

As long as it's MARINE as you mentioned, I'd say its ok, unless you have a problem with Hugo Chavez. Now, I'm not trying to say it's good or bad stuff, (actually if it were mine i wouldnt drain and waste it, I'd leave it) but you're, at some level, involved with auto service, right? If I asked you about the differential in my pick up, picked up some Citgo or Shell oil that was formulated for the limited slip, what would you advise me to do? I'm being serious and not trying to be funny or a smart a$$, but are you comfortable with an oil not sold by the dealer? Heck we all know they dont even make the oil to begin with. It's a personal comfort level. The important thing is that it is formulated for marine use.

[broken_line]

uhh i am running regular 80/90 in my pontoon is that bad?? its been in there for 3 years..

[boatfixer]

I guess theres acceptions to every rule

[Scott K]

Thanks boatfixer! I see your point. As to your question, I guess I would answer about the same as you, since it is in there, you might as well leave it in there. Although, if you were asking which to buy, I wouldnt have recommended it.

[boatfixer]

I'd say we're pretty much on the same page then. Have a good one!

[marine_man]

You can use regular gear lube, but it's not formulated to work as well as marine grade. There's more foam inhibitors in the marine grade, as well as other additives to make it more application friendly.

I suspect you'll be just fine, but there is a difference.

marine_man

[sparkyaber]

I put the same stuff in my 175 suzuki this last fall, just to have it drained by the dealer to inspect the lower unit. I would not be afraid to use it again. You did say it was a lower unit lube right?