Learn how to do a basic oil change on your Yamaha outboard engine. Step-by-step guide, tools needed, and expert tips to keep your motor running strong.
Keeping your Yamaha outboard running smoothly starts with one of the most important maintenance tasks: changing the engine oil.
Whether you own a 4-stroke Yamaha F150 or a lightweight portable 6HP, doing a basic oil change is something you can learn to do yourself—with just a few tools, a little time, and the right guide.
In this post, we’ll show you step-by-step how to do an oil change on your Yamaha outboard the right way—saving you money and keeping your engine running strong.
✅ Why Regular Oil Changes Matter
Just like with a car, your outboard motor needs clean oil to:
- Lubricate engine components
- Reduce friction and heat
- Prevent corrosion
- Extend engine life
- Maintain fuel efficiency
Yamaha recommends changing the oil every 100 hours of use or once per season—whichever comes first.
🧰 What You’ll Need (Yamaha Oil Change Kit)
Before you begin, gather these tools and materials:
🔧 Tools & Supplies:
- Oil drain pan
- Socket wrench or adjustable wrench
- Funnel
- Shop towels or rags
- Yamaha outboard oil filter wrench (optional)
- Rubber gloves
🛢️ Recommended Products:
- Yamaha 4M or 5M Marine Engine Oil (check your model’s spec)
- Yamaha oil filter (model-specific)
- New crush washer or drain plug gasket
- Owner’s manual
💡 Pro Tip: You can buy a Yamaha Oil Change Kit made for your engine model—it includes everything you need in one box.
🛠️ Step-by-Step: How to Change Yamaha Outboard Oil
1. 🧊 Warm Up the Engine
Start the engine and let it idle for 5–10 minutes.
This warms the oil, making it flow easier and drain completely.
Always perform the oil change with the boat in the upright position on a trailer or lift—not tilted.
2. 🛑 Shut Off and Remove the Engine Cover
Turn off the engine and remove the cowling (top cover) so you can access the oil components.
Place a towel or rag around the oil filter area to catch spills.
3. 💧 Drain the Old Oil
Locate the oil drain plug on the engine block (usually near the bottom on the side).
- Position your oil pan underneath.
- Remove the plug using a wrench.
- Let the oil fully drain.
🔁 Replace the drain plug gasket or washer before reinstalling.
4. 🧽 Replace the Oil Filter
Use your hand or oil filter wrench to unscrew the old oil filter.
Apply a thin coat of new oil to the rubber gasket on the new filter, then screw it on snugly—hand-tight only.
🧼 Clean any oil residue off the engine with a rag.
5. 🛢️ Refill with Fresh Yamaha Oil
Using a funnel, pour the recommended amount of Yamaha marine oil into the fill port (check your manual for the exact amount).
Typical amounts:
- 2.5–6HP: ~0.6 – 0.9 L
- F50–F90: ~2.1 – 3.4 L
- F115–F150: ~4.2 – 5.2 L
✅ Use the dipstick to check oil level after a few minutes of settling.
6. 🔁 Run and Recheck
Start the engine again for a few minutes, then turn it off and recheck the oil level. Add more if needed.
Double-check for leaks near the drain plug and oil filter.
📅 How Often Should You Change Yamaha Outboard Oil?
- Every 100 hours of use
- Or at least once per season (especially before storage)
- After break-in period (usually after first 20 hours for new engines)
Changing your oil regularly keeps your Yamaha engine in top shape, protects your investment, and helps avoid costly repairs later.
🧠 Final Tips
- Always dispose of used oil responsibly—take it to a marine or auto parts store for recycling.
- Don’t mix engine oil with gear oil—gear oil is changed separately in the lower unit.
- Use Yamaha OEM parts and oil for the best protection and performance.
🔗 Need Help or Parts?
At Yamaha7man.com, we stock genuine Yamaha oil change kits, filters, and outboards. If you’re unsure which oil or filter your model needs, reach out to us—we’re happy to help.
📩 Email: contact@Yamaha7man.com
🌍 We ship globally and support all Yamaha models.
🏁 Ready to Do It Yourself?
Now that you know how to do a basic Yamaha outboard oil change, you’re one step closer to being a confident boat owner.
Keep your engine clean, fast, and reliable—and enjoy more time on the water.