Why change the oil in autumn?
Used oil contains acids, moisture and combustion residues. If it's left in the engine all winter, it attacks bearings and metal surfaces. That's why most boat owners change the oil and filter as part of winterising, not in the spring.
Intervals, oil grade and quantity are listed in the owner's manual for your specific engine. Always follow the engine manufacturer's owner's manual.
What you need
- The right engine oil and a new oil filter for your engine model.
- Oil extraction pump – on many marine engines you can't reach a drain plug.
- Filter wrench, rags and absorbent.
- A sealed container for the waste oil and a bag for the old filter.
- The engine's model and serial number, so you buy the right filter.
Inboards, diesel and petrol
- Run the engine for a few minutes to warm it up – warm oil flows more easily and carries away more dirt.
- Stop the engine and pump the oil out through the dipstick tube, or drain it if the engine has a drain plug.
- Loosen the oil filter with a filter wrench. Keep a bag around the filter so nothing drips into the bilge.
- Smear a little fresh oil on the new filter's gasket and tighten by hand as instructed on the filter.
- Fill with new oil, wait a moment and check the level on the dipstick.
- Start the engine, check that the oil pressure light goes out and that the filter doesn't leak. Check the level again.
Outboard, four-stroke
- Stand the engine upright in running position.
- Run it up to operating temperature with flush muffs or in a test tank – never dry.
- Drain or pump out the oil and change the filter if the engine has one.
- Fill with the correct amount according to the owner's manual.
- Also change the gear oil. If the old oil looks milky, water has got in and the seals should be checked.
Used oil – dispose of it properly
Under the Waste Oil Ordinance, waste oil must not be released into water, soil or drains. Pour it into a sealed container and hand it in, together with filters and oily rags, as hazardous waste. Marinas must be able to accept hazardous waste from boats; otherwise the municipal recycling centre will take it.
Let the boatyard do it
Cramped engine bay, unsure of the right oil, or want a service at the same time? Request a quote for an oil change and autumn service. Include the engine make, model and serial number.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you change the oil in a boat engine?
According to the interval in the engine's owner's manual, given in hours and/or time. Most owners change it at least once a season, usually before winter storage.
Should the oil be changed in autumn or spring?
In the autumn. That way the contaminated oil comes out of the engine before it can sit and attack the metal surfaces all winter.
Where do I dispose of used oil from my boat?
As hazardous waste at the harbour's reception facility or the municipal recycling centre. Waste oil must not be released into water or soil.
Do I need to change the gear oil on my outboard?
Yes, most manufacturers specify regular changes. At the same time, check whether the old oil is milky, which indicates water in the gear housing.
Sources
- Vinterkonservering av din båtmotor, Biltema biltema.se
- Motorvård för båtmotorer, Biltema biltema.se
- Förordning (1993:1268) om spillolja, Sveriges riksdag riksdagen.se
- Avfall från fritidsbåtar, Transportstyrelsen transportstyrelsen.se