January, 2012 | Outboard Motor Oil

Repairing WaveRunner Scratches

Scratches on a new vehicle, whether it’s a car or a boat, really irritate me. I recently found some scratches on my brand new WaveRunner which absolutely drove me nuts. Fortunately, I have plenty of experience fixing scratches to look brand new.

Using epoxy fillers, toothpicks, sandpaper, sealant, touch up paint, and polyurethane clear coat, I can fix just about any scratch. It is very time consuming to apply and let the different fillers dry, and then sand them down and paint, but the results are completely worth it. I do need to go to the store to pick up some matching paint, so I suppose while I’m there I’ll also purchase some WaveRunner oil.

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Parts of a Two Cycle Outboard

I’ve been asked to give a brief refresher course as to how a two cycle engine works. There are three main components of a two cycle engine: spark plugs, compression, and power valve system. The spark plugs ignite the combustion mixture, thus generating power in the combustion stroke. The igniting spark plugs move the pistons up and down, compressing the crankcase mixture, and opening the exhaust port so a fresh supply of fuel can be taken in.

As the piston moves down toward the spark plug, the combustion mixture is compressed, thus creating a vacuum in the crankcase. The vacuum in turn causes the reed valve to open, the combustion mixture to be drawn out, and the cycle is then started over. The power valve system closes the exhaust port during piston cycles for better low-speed engine power. Now that you have a better understanding of how a two cycle engine works, you’ll know better than to supply the engine with anything other than premium two cycle outboard oil.

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Digital vs. Analog Gauges

Like controls, gauges also come in a variety of styles, including analog and digital versions. An analog gauge is extremely basic. What you get is essentially a pointer and scale that tells speed, RPM, trim, or fuel level. These gauges are connected to the engine by wires.

Digital gauges are more desirable to some people because the LCD screens on some models allow for all features to be displayed at once or one at a time. In other words, you can have access to all the engine’s vitals with just a touch of the button. Whether you’re old school or new school, it’s important to make sure your gauges are in good working order. Whenever you replace your engine’s two cycle oil be sure to check your gauges and other equipment.

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MerCruiser Piloting Systems

MerCruiser has been hyping its Axius and Axius Premier piloting system. According to the company the piloting systems “turn the most stressful part of boating into something you’ll enjoy.” Apparently, the company has made control and handling easier with an intuitive joystick.

The Axius system works well with boat packages from 27 to 46 feet that utilize a dual sterndrive. Docking is supposed to be easier and more “worry-free.” I’ll admit, the SmartCraft digital throttle and shift does sound enticing. I may need to look more into these systems the next type I pick up some synthetic oil outboard motor.

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Types of Control Mounts

Depending on the boat and engine, controls can be installed using different mount types. The main kinds of mounts are: side, panel or flush, console, binnacle, or top-mount. Typically, side mounts are used in conjunction with mechanical controls on outboard engines. The control box is installed on the boat’s inner wall.

Panel or flush mounts can be used with mechanical and digital controls. The boxes are hidden behind a wall with the handle flush to the wall. Console, binnacle, and top-mount installations likewise can be used for both mechanical and digital controls. Components are usually hidden under decorative housing with the handle attached. You can browse some housing options the next type you pick up synthetic 2 stroke outboard oil.

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Digital vs. Mechanical Controls

When selecting controls for a boat it is important to decide whether you want to go for mechanical and digital. If you’re unfamiliar with the differences, then allow me to explain. Mechanical controls connect to the engine via cables, one cable per engine.

Digital controls, on the other hand, make use of sensors and wires. This system transmits a signal from the controls to the engine’s computer. Mercury Marine models that utilize digital controls include the Verado and OptiMax. For additional information, talk to your mechanic next time you’re picking up snowmobile oil or spare parts.

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Boat Controls

I know I spend a lot of time on this blog writing about outboard oil, but today I’d like to focus on controls. Why controls? They are the primary contact point for most boat drivers, but I doubt most boat owners know much about them.

For example, did you know that while controls come in different shapes and styles, most have a dual-function in that they control both the throttle and shift. Single-engine controls typically have one handle, while dual installations have two. Boats with multiple engines are often accompanied by controls that have more handles.

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Sport 340 Inflatable Boat

I read another pithy tagline for inflatable boats, this time for the Sport 340 soft bottom inflatable boat. The tagline read, “Capable. Very Capable.” It’s not quite as catchy as the tagline I mentioned in Monday’s post, but it still made me snicker.

The Sport 340 is described as a boat that can go the distance. It can be used as a fishing, cruising, family fun, or ship-to-shore tender boat. The trick is in the design of the boat: It has a lower center of gravity and high-strength floors with seating for up to five people. Throw an outboard on the back, some Mercury outboard oil, and some gasoline and you’ll be good to go.

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Synthetic Blend Outboard Oil

According to Mercury Marine, their synthetic blend Verado outboard motor oil is far superior to a popular 15W 50 full synthetic oil. Verado, they claim, has better shear stability and volatility. It also has a higher viscosity and HTHS after shear.

Improved bearing protection is a result of the superior HTHS after shear. In difficult situations, the Mercury synthetic outboard motor oil blend holds its viscosity better. Mercury Marine’s synthetic Verado blend consumes less oil than the popular brand. I’m inclined to believe the claims made about Verado given Mercury Marine’s reputation and staying power in the industry.

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Slip Sliding in the Snow

I read another pithy tagline for inflatable boats, this time for the Sport 340 soft bottom inflatable boat. The tagline read, “Capable. Very Capable.” It’s not quite as catchy as the tagline I mentioned in Monday’s post, but it still made me snicker.

The Sport 340 is described as a boat that can go the distance. It can be used as a fishing, cruising, family fun, or ship-to-shore tender boat. The trick is in the design of the boat: It has a lower center of gravity and high-strength floors with seating for up to five people. Throw an outboard on the back, some Mercury outboard motor oil, and some gasoline and you’ll be good to go.

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Fleet of Inflatable Boats


Boat rentals are a big business during the summertime. The more I learn about inflatable boats the more I’m intrigued by the idea of starting my own rental company. Eventually I could work my way up to an entire fleet of inflatable boats that can be used for fishing or simply cruising.

I’ve already found some sites that offer good deals on inflatable boats, particularly if they are bought in bulk. I imagine I could likewise strike a deal for engines. As far as oil, I already know that I can easily get my hands on Mercury oil 55 gallon drum for not too much money. I think I’ll mull the idea over this winter and decide one way or the other in time for the summer boating season.

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Inflatable Ocean Runner

Sometimes when ad men try to be clever it actually works out. I was reading a review for the Ocean Runner inflatable boat and the tagline read, “Nothing dinghy about it!” Sure it’s a pretty bad pun, but it’s not inaccurate.

The Ocean Runner is an affordable Rigid Inflatable Boat (RIB). The sandwich-laminated fiberglass hull has incredible maneuverability and performance. The deck is non-skid, the bow locker is integrated and securable, and it has a spacious interior for seating the whole family. It can also handle a four-stroke engine, lubricated, of course, by Mercury oil.

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