Engine oil lab test opinions needed

[Tiara 290 AYC]

Hello everyone! I'm new to this forum and almost an Tiara 290 owner. Getting the survey performed this Monday. Looking forward to getting to know some of you. It's a 1992 with 660 hrs on it.

Any opinions on having the engine oil sent to a lab for testing? Boat has twin I/O 5.7 MercCruiser's. This particular surveyor strongly suggests it be performed.

[Uhehner]

The engines will be fine at that low hours, I would be concerned about the elbows and risers and if its raw water cooled, the exhaust manifolds. They have a 5 year life span. That could be an expensive fix. Also have the I/O oil checked for water in the oil. Replacing the seals is another expensive fix. Next check when the water pumps have been serviced, another expensive fix. Any wise boat seller always changes the oil before the sale so the results will come back as OK. Capt. George

[Tiara 290 AYC]

Capt. George
Thank-you very much for the helpful information. I have made notes to take with me to the survey. Michigan weather is not looking good right now for the survey Monday. I will give a report on the results if it doesn't rain. The boat is in Monroe, MI. just north of Toledo, OH. Curt

[sawdustdad]

Oil analysis is best used over time to trend issues, but a single test will tell you if there is coolant or water (I was going to say salt but you're in fresh water) contamination. X2 on the exhaust system and I/O maintenance.

[Tiara 290 AYC]

Buoy Scout - Thanks for your suggestion. Sounds like riser, manifolds etc. should be my key concerns. Land survey went great, just waiting for weather to settle down so we can get the sea trial in Thursday or Friday. Thanks again for your help. Curt