If I was going to change my foot gear oil in a Mercruiser Alpha drive
after every use (about every 4 hours). I do this due to a small leak
in one of the seals that allows about a half cup of water in the same
time period to enter the foot (just until I can get it repaired),
would it really do any harm to use the cheaper automotive 80W90 gear
oil vs. the marine grade stuff?

I have received one answer regarding this but would like more
opinions.

Thanks to all....you all have been very helpful.....per usual.

Dave

I do this due to a small leak
in one of the seals that allows about a half cup of water in the same
time period

If you are running your foot with that much water in it I doubt you really care
what type of lube you are using. You will quickly overcome any extra additive
(if it is really there).
Bought in quantity the marine stuff is about the same price as a name brand
80w90 anyway so I doubt there is really that much difference.

Thanks Greg,

I ran the foot today with regular gear oil and even though it was
milky from being mixed with water, I found its viscosity to be greater
than the stuff that Mercruiser makes.....and the drive seemed to run
more quiet. It took quite a bit longer to drain the foot with the
regular gear oil versus the Mercruiser stuff too.

Thanks again,

Dave


On 23 Apr 2004 15:40:37 GMT, (Greg) wrote:

I do this due to a small leak
in one of the seals that allows about a half cup of water in the same
time period

If you are running your foot with that much water in it I doubt you really care
what type of lube you are using. You will quickly overcome any extra additive
(if it is really there).
Bought in quantity the marine stuff is about the same price as a name brand
80w90 anyway so I doubt there is really that much difference.