A bit off topic.....cold weather outboard question

[Stewart Fan]

I'm hoping this doesn't get moved,because the marine oil forum doesn't get much attention this time of year.

I have a 2006 Yamaha 150hp four stroke engine. Yamaha recommends 10w30 down to 5°. I'm fishing this weekend and the NW is getting some crazy cold weather. We haven't seen temps this low since the early 90s.

The expected temps where I'm fishing are going to be 5-10°. Thats right at the coldest temp for a 10w30 in Yamahas opinion.

I can use 5w30 down to -5°. Should I drain the 10w30 and run the 5w for this weekend trip or will the 10w be fine?

 

[Johnny]

I think I would change it just to be safe. While your at it load up some spare bottles of brandy. Your going to need it.

 

[jldcol]

This probably will and should be moved. That said err... typed? anyway if enough of the outboard in in the water your engine/oil temperature may be effectively if not actually above ambient air temps. Generally 10w30 is safe to about zero so you are near the cuttoff. If it's not to hard, not to much oil, and has been say 100 hours or so since last change then ok change it. Is it hard to start as these temps? Thinner oil may well help.

 

[Stewart Fan]

At what temp would you still feel ok about running the 10w?

 

[Johnny]

In an outboard motor, about 15-20F.

 

[Volvohead]

I think either should be fine in a synthetic at those temps.

You must REALLY like fishing to be out on water that cold.

 

[FZ1]

Check with your local Yamaha dealer and remember this. When in doubt; Pitch it out.

 

[Stewart Fan]

Originally Posted By: Volvohead
I think either should be fine in a synthetic at those temps.

You must REALLY like fishing to be out on water that cold.


What if I told you we sleep in a dome tent?

Its not that bad though. We pay for an RV spot and use a couple space heaters. The tent usually stays about 55-60 degrees.

 

[rg200amp]

I would change the oil. 5w30 all the way.

 

[Lon]

Oil would be much cheaper than 10 grand outboard.Good luck fishing have run my jetsled fishing steelhead at -22F before.watch for ice buildup on lower unit may make steering difficult,and run it out of water a few seconds to get water out of block so she does not freeze on you on trip back.:}

 

[ryan2022]

I would change it as well, for the money. Those are pricey engines, and ANY wear that is avoided is good.

AMAZING engine BTW. I had a 115 Yamaha growing up, it was smooth and had tons of power. Smoked like a tire fire on startup though.

 

[FZ1]

I Luv the smell of 2 stroke in the morning.