first 20 hour service ?

Taradise

New Member
Sep 5, 2007
170
Acworth, GA
Just recently purchased an 07 240 SD (love the boat) 350 mag B3. This is my first inboard motor and I was wondering what is actually serviced on the first 20 hr service. I like to do my own maintenance but also want make sure I get everything checked. I am still waiting on the engine manual so I thought I would ask on this forum - btw, great forum!
 
Welcome!!

Take a look at the thread going, titled "Someone at MM Might get fired!"

As far as "what gets done", if you're having it done, the underlying message is, make them line item everything that they will do. Some will be happy just to take your money for an oil change, some may go all out and want to check engine alignment. Not a bad thing if they don't gouge you since all that entails is pulling the drive and sticking the alignment tool in.

A good selling dealer may do a lot of checks just to make sure there are no problems, but then again, problems means money through the service door.

If you have specific concerns, ask them to look at it. Make sure it's clear what they do, and it's documented.

FYI, generally a 20 hour is not much more than visual inspections and oil change, but ask and ask again.
 
I talked to he service mgr....

He said they change the oil, inspect the gear oil, check the engine for loose over connections or problems...for $200. He also said they enter the 20 hr service into the computer that is linked with Mercrusier they helps with any warranty issues down the road.
hhhmmmmmm? sounds kind of like a scam...

I purchased an extended warranty so but I would also like to make sure I am completely covered should I do the maintenance myself...

the boat is going back to them anyway for some gel coat work and a few minor cosmetic issues that I pointed out when I took delivery so I am still wondering if I should fork over the $$ for the 20hr service job or not...

I need some advice....
 
To me, I do my own oil changes, an oil change for $150 or so is nuts, but that's what they cost to have done. So for $200, "if" they actually do more, it may not be a bad deal. I think I'd expect more than just 5 minutes under the hatch yanking on things to make sure nothing is loose though.
 
Just my 2 cents worth. When mine was due MM told me to hold off until the 50 hours. Just check the fluid levels and keep an eye on things.
 
I'm a fan of changing the oil early in a new motor, even a production motor. I'd at least have the oil and filter changed to discard as much production waste as possible. My current motor saw new oil ever 10-15 hours for the first 50 hours or so, now I'm up to about 20-25 using stupidly expensive oil. For stock Merc. power, every 50 hours if you put a lot of hours on her in a season, otherwise, change it at the end of the season, every season.
 
I can't believe how these 20 hour service "requirements" vary all over the board. The costs vary widely too. I agree with Sea Ray Jim on what ought to be done at 20 hours.

Have the dealer change the engine oil and filter and check for loose hoses clamps etc. Make sure they check for any signs of water leaks on the cooling and exhaust system. This is what was done on my last two boats. This service costs me $90 at my dealer for my 260DA last year.

If you want to spend a few more dollars have them pull your outdrive and check engine alignment as well.

Dave
 

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