Mercury High Performance Gear Lube vs Quicksilver: 3 Primary Differences

You need the right gear lube to keep your carbureted marine engine running smoothly and long. Two popular options on the market are Mercury High-Performance Gear Lube and Quicksilver Marine Engine Oil. Although some users think these two products are the same, some differences exist.

Quicksilver is often found in general retail locations, while Mercury-branded products are typically sold through Mercury-certified dealerships and marinas. Also, the Mercury-branded product comes with a premium, possibly because it’s sold through authorized dealers.

Through the following article, we will explore the differences between Mercury High-Performance Gear Lube and Quicksilver, drawing from discussions and information from both the online community and industry knowledge.

Differences Between Mercury High Performance Gear Lube and Quicksilver for Carbureted Marine Engine

There are a few differences to consider when comparing Mercury High-Performance Gear Lube and Quicksilver for carbureted marine engines.

• Branding and availability
• Labeling and part numbers
• Price comparison

1. Branding and Availability

Quicksilver, being more widely available, can be found in general retail locations such as Walmart, Kmart, and West Marine. On the other hand, Mercury-branded products are typically sold through Mercury-certified dealerships and marinas.

While both products are similar, with identical part numbers indicating their interchangeability, the branding and availability differ. This means that if you prefer the convenience of purchasing from general retail locations, Quicksilver will be more accessible.

2. Labeling and Part Numbers

To differentiate between Mercury Gear Lube and Quicksilver for your carbureted marine engine, examine the labeling and part numbers on the packaging.

Matching part numbers indicate that the product inside is the same, regardless of the branding. Quicksilver products have a ‘Q’ suffix, while Merc brand products have a ‘K’ suffix.

This distinction allows you to identify the specific brand you’re looking for easily. Also, both Quicksilver and Mercury products may be labeled as ‘plus’ or ‘premium plus’. This labeling is suggested to indicate the same quality for gear oil.

3. Price Comparison

To determine the price difference between Mercury High-Performance Gear Lube and Quicksilver for your carbureted marine engine, consider the cost of each product.

Quicksilver’s ‘Extreme Performance’ gear oil is available in different quantities, with a quart costing approximately $15-18, a gallon for about $60, and a 5-gallon container for around $272.

On the other hand, the price of Mercury Gear Lube may vary depending on where you purchase it. Some users speculate that the Mercury-branded product comes with a premium, possibly due to its distribution through authorized dealers.

Mercury High-Performance Gear Lube vs Quicksilver: Comparison Table

Aspect	Quicksilver	Mercury
Branding and Availability	More widely available in general retail locations	Typically sold through Mercury-certified dealerships and marinas
Labeling and Part Numbers	Quicksilver products have a ‘Q’ suffix	Merc brand products have a ‘K’ suffix
Price Comparison	Quart: $15-18 Gallon: $60 5-gallon: $272	Price may vary depending on where you purchase it

How to Choose the Proper Outboard Gear Oil?

To choose the proper outboard gear oil, there are some tips you can follow:

Tip #1 Consult the Owner’s Manual

Refer to your outboard motor’s owner’s manual to determine the appropriate type and viscosity of gear oil for optimal performance. The owner’s manual provides specific recommendations tailored to your engine, ensuring you select the right gear oil for your outboard motor.

It will outline the suitable type of gear oil, such as Mercury High-Performance Gear Lube or Quicksilver, and specify the ideal viscosity range.

Tip #2 Identify the Correct Viscosity

The viscosity of gear oil is determined by its ability to flow at different temperatures. Choosing the proper viscosity is crucial to ensure optimal performance and protection for your outboard motor.

Numbers like 80W-90 or 75W-90 usually indicate the viscosity grade. The ‘W’ represents ‘winter’ and the oil’s viscosity in cold temperatures. Also, the number after the ‘W’ indicates the viscosity at operational temperatures.

To determine the correct viscosity for your outboard motor, consult your owner’s manual. The manufacturer provides specific recommendations based on the motor’s design and requirements.

Tip #3 Choose the Right Type of Gear Oil

When selecting the proper outboard gear oil, consider the differences between Mercury Gear Lube and Quicksilver to make an informed decision.

Synthetic oils generally provide superior performance in extreme conditions and have longer service intervals, making them suitable for high-performance applications. However, they tend to be more expensive than mineral oils.

Conversely, mineral oils are more cost-effective and meet the basic requirements for most outboard motors.

Tip #4 Consider Environment and Usage

Consider the type of water you’ll operate in, whether saltwater or freshwater. Saltwater can be more corrosive, so you may need a gear oil that offers better protection against corrosion.

Also, take into account the temperature range you’ll be boating in. If you frequently operate your boat in extreme temperatures, choose a gear oil that can withstand high heat and provide better lubrication under heavy loads.

Finally, consider your specific usage requirements. If you engage in high-performance activities such as racing, a high-performance synthetic gear oil may be necessary to ensure optimal performance and protection.

Tip #5 Check for Compatibility

Selecting a gear oil compatible with your specific outboard motor’s brand and model is crucial. Different manufacturers may have their proprietary oil formulations specifically designed for their engines. Using an incompatible oil can lead to performance issues and even damage.

Tip #6 Verify API or NMMA Certification

To choose the proper outboard gear oil, verify the API or NMMA certification on the product label, ensuring it’s high-quality and performs well.

The American Petroleum Institute (API) and the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) have established certification standards to guarantee that gear oils meet specific requirements. These standards are crucial as they ensure the oil’s quality and performance.

By checking for API or NMMA certification on the product label, you can have confidence that the gear oil has undergone rigorous testing and meets industry standards. This verification process helps to ensure that the gear oil will provide optimal performance and protection for your outboard engine.

Tip #7 Brand Recommendations

When selecting the proper outboard gear oil, consider the brand recommendations for optimal engine performance and protection. Some boat manufacturers may have a preferred oil brand for their engines, and it’s wise to follow their recommendations if they exist.

Is Mercury and Quicksilver gear oil the same?

If you frequently use Mercury gear oil, you may wonder if Quicksilver gear oil is the same. While both brands are associated with marine lubricants, some key differences exist.

Quicksilver is a brand that’s available for purchase from non-Mercury dealers, such as West Marine or Walmart. It offers a range of lubricants and basic maintenance items.

Mercury gear oil is specifically designed and manufactured by Mercury Marine, a trusted and reputable name in the boating industry. Mercury gear oil is formulated to meet the specific requirements of Mercury engines, ensuring optimal performance and protection.

What kind of gear oil does a Mercury outboard take?

You should use Mercury High-Performance Gear Lube for your Mercury outboard. This gear oil is specifically designed to meet the unique requirements of your Mercury outboard engine.

This gear lube provides excellent protection and lubrication for the gears and bearings in your outboard’s lower unit. It’s formulated with special additives to ensure smooth operation and minimize wear, even under high loads and extreme conditions.

Does it matter what gear oil I use on my outboards?

You must use the appropriate gear oil to ensure optimal performance and longevity for your outboards. Using the wrong gear oil can harm the overall functioning of your outboard engine.

When choosing gear oil, viscosity plays a crucial role. Using a gear oil with a higher viscosity than recommended can lead to poor shift quality, increased operating temperature, and lower fuel efficiency.

Otherwise, using a gear oil with a lower viscosity can result in inadequate lubrication and increased wear on the gears.

What happens if you use the wrong gear oil?

Using the wrong gear oil can result in poor lubrication, leading to increased friction and heat buildup. This can cause excessive wear and tear on the gears, resulting in decreased performance and potential transmission failure.

Also, different gear oil grades have different viscosity and additives designed to meet the specific requirements of the outboard engine. Using the incorrect gear oil can disrupt the delicate balance of these components and compromise the overall performance and durability of the engine.

Is Mercury synthetic oil better for outboard motors?

Mercury synthetic oil offers several advantages, making it a better choice for outboard motors. Its smooth flow during cold-engine starts minimizes engine wear, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

Unlike conventional oils, Mercury synthetic oil contains no carbons, which means it won’t leave carbon deposits on your pistons, the combustion chamber, or the back of the throttle blades. These carbon deposits can negatively impact engine performance and efficiency.

Mercury synthetic oil is also formulated to provide excellent lubrication and protection, even under high temperatures and heavy loads. Its advanced synthetic formula helps to reduce friction and wear, maintaining the overall health and performance of your outboard motor.

Choose the Proper Gear Oil to Avoid Costly Damage

When choosing the appropriate gear oil for your carbureted marine engine, the differences between Mercury High Performance Gear Lube and Quicksilver are important to consider.

Selecting the proper outboard gear oil for your Mercury engine is crucial to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Using the wrong gear oil can lead to potential damage and costly repairs.

Consider using Mercury synthetic oil for enhanced protection and efficiency in your Mercury outboard motor.