4. PRE-OPERATION CHECKS
Engine Oil
Engine oil is a major factor affecting
engine performance and service life.
-1 Running the engine with
insufficient oil can cause serious
engine damage.
Recommended oil
Use high-detergent, premium quality
4-stroke engine oil, certified to meet
or exceed U.S. automobile manufac-
tures’ requirements for American
Petroleum Institute (API) Service
Classification SG, SH. Engine oils
classified SG, SH will show these
designations on the container.
Select the appropriate viscosity for the
average temperature in your area.
SAE low-30 is recommended for gen-
eral, all-temperature use (BF35A).
SAE 5 W-30 is recommended for gen-
eral, all-temperature use (BF40A/SOA).
API Service Grade: Use a Fuel
Efficient SG, SH oil.
NOTE: This oil is usually identified
by words such as: “Energy Conserving
II.” “Gas Saving, “Fuel Saving,” etc.
Inspection
1. Position the outboard motor verti-
cally, and remove the engine cover.
2. Remove the oil level dipstick and
wipe with a clean rag.
3. Reinsert the dipstick all the way in,
then pull it out and read the level. If
the oil registers near or below the
lower level mark, remove the oil
filler cap and fill to the upper level
mark with the recommended oil.
NOTICE Do not overfill. Excessive
oil can damage the engine.
4. Reinstall the oil tiller cap and tight-
en securely.
5. Install the engine cover and lock it
securely.
When the engine oil is contaminated or
discolored, replace with fresh engine oil
(refer to page 79 for oil capacity,
replacement interval and procedure).
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