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Can I use Outboard boat oil in my dirt bike?

Posted: Sun Oct 07, 2012 1:16 am
by Sandblaster
Can I use Outboard motor oil in my dirt bike?
The short answer is yes.
The real question you should ask is, "Should you?"
Our opinion?
Definitely not.
Why not?
First, it does not burn as clean as MX oil.
You will gum up your exhaust valves and generally make a mess of your exhaust system.
Second, a outboard motor runs about half as fast as your dirt bike engine and is designed for more of a constant throttle position.
Further, a outboard motor runs at much lower temperatures then does a dirt bike.
Can you say thermal breakdown?
Also, take a look at the Horse Power differences between similar CC motorcycle engines VS boat engines.
The motorcycle engines are far more powerful per cc.
In our opinion running outboard motor oil will cause your engine to wear quicker....
So, all that being considered, if I was stuck out somewhere and had no choice I would run outboard motor oil.
But I would not run it any longer then absolutely necessary.
Yes motorcycle oil is typically more expensive then outboard motor oil but what does a complete rebuild cost?
Your thoughts and comments are always appreciated.
Thanks!
SB