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Why You Should Change Your Lower Unit Oil Every Year Changing your engine oil is a maintenance item most boat owners remember. Lower unit oil, however, is often overlooked. The lower unit, also called the gearcase, contains a set of precision gears and bearings that transfer power from the engine to the propeller. Unlike the powerhead, these components are completely dependent on clean gear lube for lubrication and protection. Replacing lower unit oil every year is one of the easiest and most af …

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 …

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 …

Mercury Guardian Mode Explained If your Mercury outboard suddenly loses power, will not accelerate, or begins sounding an alarm, your engine may have entered Guardian Mode. Guardian Mode is Mercury's built-in engine protection system. It is designed to help prevent serious damage by reducing engine performance when certain problems are detected. While it can be frustrating, Guardian Mode is actually doing its job by helping protect your engine. What Causes Mercury Guardian Mode? Guardian Mode is …