Quick Question on Engine Oil

[kevinm]

I bought a used 2005 V-drive with a 340HP PCM engine. First time I need to add oil and wondering what type I should use? It was recommended from a local dealer that I use 10-40 Synthetic. Just wondering if other Tige owners had a different opinion or if that's what I should be using?

[boardman74]

You kind of need to know whats in there to add to it. I'm not 100% sure but I don't think you should add synthetic if the rest of the oil is conventional.

[2013Z3]

The manual recommends using 15W-40 conventional. They do not recommend using synthetic. If for some reason the previous owner used synthetic then switching to conventional will not harm anything. Going the other way could introduce issues with seals and such. Just my $.02. Walmart (at least in texas) carries Rotella 15W-40 for a reasonable price.

[Ewok]

Shell oil Rotella T Tripple Protection 15W-40 can be found in some O'Reillys in 1 quart size, but your usually find it at walmart in the 5 quart size. Make sure it's the conventional T Tripple Protection, not the T-6 synthetic, unless you know for a fact the previous owner used synthetic. I know some guys on here use Amsoil and Royal Purple too, but you have to know what your running to add oil, unless your going to do a full drain oil and filter change.

[IDBoating]

Regarding the title, my first thought was "There's no such thing as a quick question on engine oil". At least not on boat forums!

I second Ewok's comment. The only really safe thing to do is pick the oil you want to use (Rotella T is the correct answer) and then completely drain the oil, replace the filter, and replace the entire volume of oil in the engine so you, the new owner, know for certain what is in there. Lubricants do not like to be mixed and that's a $10,000 engine you're playing with. Take good care of it.

[Iwndr]

Crap.... I thought we were going to be safe when Erik told me Wab was on vacation. .... here we go

[IDBoating]

Sorry, I'll try more restraint next time!

[Iwndr]

Sorry, I'll try more restraint next time!