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Routine oil changes are one of the most important maintenance tasks you can perform on your outboard. While it's possible to purchase every service item individually, many boat owners choose an OEM oil change kit because it simplifies the process and helps ensure nothing gets overlooked. More importantly, it can save time before you even begin the service. Everything Is Designed to Work Together An oil change involves more than simply draining old oil and replacing the filter. Depending on your …

Draining your lower unit oil is one of the simplest ways to check the health of your gearcase. If the gear lube comes out looking creamy, gray, or milky instead of its normal color, it's a sign that water has entered the lower unit. While finding milky oil isn't something to ignore, it also doesn't automatically mean you need a new lower unit. The important thing is understanding why it happened and addressing the problem before more serious damage occurs. Why Does Lower Unit Oil Turn Milky? Ge …

For boat owners, hurricane season means more than stocking up on supplies. A little preparation before a storm can significantly reduce the risk of damage to your boat and help you get back on the water more quickly afterward. While every storm is different, having a plan before watches and warnings are issued gives you the best chance of protecting your investment. Don't Wait Until the Last Minute One of the biggest mistakes boat owners make is waiting until a hurricane is only a day or two aw …

If you've shopped for marine parts before, you've probably noticed that some products carry the Mercury name while others are branded Quicksilver. It's a common question we hear from boat owners: Are they the same, and does it matter which one I buy? The short answer is yes, they're closely related, but there are a few important differences that can help you choose the right part for your engine. The Same Company, Different Purpose Both Mercury and Quicksilver are brands owned by Mercury Marine …

7 Ways to Improve Your Boat's Fuel Efficiency Fuel economy is something every boat owner cares about, especially with today's fuel prices. Many people assume poor fuel efficiency means there is something wrong with the engine, but that is not always the case. In reality, fuel consumption is affected by dozens of factors, including propeller selection, engine trim, boat weight, maintenance, and even how the boat is loaded. Small changes in setup, maintenance, and operating habits can make a notic …