Oil for a model year 1988 4.3l Merc I/O

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Im going to sea trial a 21' Searay this weekend, its an 1988. So not knowing if anything has changed over the years as far as lifters, etc... what oil is recommended, if I should buy this boat? I am very biased towards Amsoil. Any recommendations as to what weight to use?

 

[Pete591]

15W-50 SIlverCap M-1 and a M-1 oil filter.

 

[Volvohead]

It's got a 2-barrel. Conventional HDEO 15w-40 or straight 30. The 4.3 is a pretty solid engine and not worked too hard in that package. At that age, check the manifold riser joints for leaks if they are still original.

I'm partial to Wix filters on marine plants, as they seem to put up better with higher pressures in my experience.

Spend the big lubrication dollars on the Alpha drive. And steer clear of SS props on it if you are planning to hit anything.