[Hydrocruiser]

This study was reviewed on Bob's oil website. A few conclusions were drawn:

- The study used oil at a viscosity of 30W-70 mixed with glycerin at 70*F

-It was a "hobiest" that did the study with a budget of $ 150.00 total.

-The oil used was non-synthetic

-Flow-rates were measured at 10 psi.

So what are the concerns?

-Nobody uses conventional oil mixed with glycerin in an engine as the test did.

-30W-70 viscosity was used and is unheard of and not sold commercially.

-Oil flow would need to be measured at various temperatures from 50*F to 200*F for this to be realistic.

-They did not compare flow rates for synthetics vs. conventionals as synthetics flow better.

-They did this test at 10 psi which is not enough pressure to adequately demonstrate the flow-rate of the filters realistically.


So whereas their findings may be accurate there are other oil filter studies that are much more scientific.

Mobil-1 does have excellent flow and captures to 10 microns and is not much different in performance in other studies in comparison to the Amsoil, Baldwin or K&N Marine filters which are all good.

The Merc filters have been shown in 2 studies to have a large pore size and allows potentially damaging particles through at the expense of good flow. You need good capture and good flow; one is not a substitute for the other.

Bob's site is in agreement that if you have to decide where to put your $$ the first place is on a good capturing and flowing oil filter. Then into a good conventional oil or better yet a synthetic oil. Then if you want to go even further; find an oil like Mobil-1 20W-50 that has specs no other oil can refute with the ability to maintain film coating during prolonged storage and help fight dry starts. Then consider an oil filter magnet and pressurizing system. Marine oil changes can be safely retained at the recommended 50 hrs in most applications if you go this route. If your engine floods of you get blow-by from a blower you may need to go to as frequent as 10 hour drains. I personally like the idea of using Mobil-1 20W-50 with a Mobil-1 oil filter. I now change at 25-30 hours and go the season which is 50-60 hours for me with the same oil. Redline "Heavy" or Mobil-1 in the gearcase and it's a done deal.

I like using the "2,000 lb gorilla products" that cost a few bucks more and not being a slave to maintenance but knowing I am getting probably better performance than others changing frequently. It makes for good peace of mind and good boating instead of playing Mr. Mechanic all season long.