Why Fresh Gear Lube Matters for Your Honda Outboard
Routine lower-unit maintenance is one of the most efective ways to keep your Honda outboard running smoothly season after season. Fresh gear lube minimizes friction, reduces heat, and protects critical components from wear and corrosion. Neglecting gear lube changes can lead to water intrusion, damaged seals, and premature gear wear. All of these can shorten your engine's lifespan or lead to costly repairs.
Honda outboards are built for reliability, but that reliability depends on proper maintenance. Replacing your lower unit oil regularly ensures that your engine's gears and bearings stay protected, even in demanding freshwater or saltwater environments.
Table of Contents
| Proper Honda Gearcase Maintenance | Gear Lube Chart | Tips & Frequently Asked Questions |
Why Choose Marine Grade Honda Gear Lube
Marine grade gear lube is engineered to meet or exceed Honda's strict marine performance standards. Unlike automotive lubricants, marine gear lube is specifically formulated to deliver consistent protection under high-load, high-RPM, operation typical of marine engines. It provides superior corrosion resistance and long-lasting film strength to help your lower unit perform at its best.
To fit different boating conditions and engine sizes there are two main types of gear lube. Both meet GL-5 marine specifications and are suitable for Honda outboards.
| Type | Best For | Key Benefits |
| Standard Gear Lube | Everyday boating, light to moderate use | Protects against corrosion and wear, ideal for small to mid-size engines |
| High-Performance Gear Lube | High-output or frequent saltwater use | Enhanced load protection, superior water resistance, extended gear life |
Proper Honda Outboard Gear Lube Maintenance Schedule
20 hour Break In Service
For a new Honda outboard, replace the oil and gear lube after the first 20 hours or within the first month of use. This early change removes small particles generated during break-in and ensures your lower unit starts clean.
Every 100 Hours or Annually
Honda recommends you change your gear lube at least every 100 hours of run time or once a year, whichever comes first. Regular service helps prevent moisture buildup and protects against wear from metal particles and contaminants.
End of Season Maintenance
Before winterizing or extended storage, always replace the gear lube.
Old gear lube can accumulate water, debris, and contaminants from use during the season. Leaving these in your system can cause corrosion or damage to your Honda lower unit, that can lead to costly repairs. By flushing your system and putting in fresh lube your Honda outboard is fully protected for the next season.
Honda Outboard Gear Lube Capacity Chart
Please note that the capacities listed below are approximations and it is recommended to check your service manual for engine specific information.
Click here to download a PDF of the chart below
| Model | Gear Lube Capacity Oz | Notes | Recommended Gear Lube |
| BF2A/BF20 | 1.7 | High Performance Synthetic Blend Lower Unit Gear Lube 187-9650-2 | |
| BF5A/BF50 | 3.4 | ||
| BF8A/BF80 | 7.8 | ||
| BF75/BF100 | 7.8 | ||
| BF(P)8D | 9.6 | ||
| BF9.9A | 8.1 | ||
| BF(P)9.9D | 9.9 | ||
| BF15A | 8.1 | ||
| BF(P)15D | 9.6 | ||
| BF(P)20D | 9.6 | ||
| BF25A | 9.8 | ||
| BF25D | 9.1 | ||
| BF30A | 9.8 | ||
| BF30D | 9.1 | ||
| BF35A | 17.6 | ||
| BF40A | 17.6 | Up to 3212165 | |
| BF40A | 13.9 | From 3212166 | |
| BF40D | 13.9 | ||
| BF45A | 17.6 | ||
| BF50A | 17.6 | Up to 3213356 | |
| BF50A | 13.9 | From 3213357 | |
| BF50D | 13.9 | High Performance Synthetic Blend Lower Unit Gear Lube 187-9650-2 | |
| BF(P)60A | 16 | ||
| BF75AT-AW | 22.3 | ||
| BF75AX | 33.8 | ||
| BF75D | 32.1 | ||
| BF90AT-AW | 22.3 | ||
| BF90AX | 33.8 | ||
| BF90D | 32.1 | ||
| BF115A | 33.8 | ||
| BF115D | 33.1 | ||
| BF130A | 33.8 | ||
| BF135A | 33.1 | ||
| BF150A | 33.1 | ||
| BF200A | 39.6 | ||
| BF225A | 39.6 | ||
| BF250A | 49.6 |
Honda Gear Lube FAQs
► What type of gear lube should I use in my Honda outboard?
Always use marine grade gear lube for maximum protection and performance.
► How often should I change my Honda gear lube?
Honda recommends you replace it after the first 20 hours for new engines, and then every 100 hours or annually after.
► Can I use automotive gear oil in my Honda outboard?
No, automotive gear oils are not formulated to handle marine conditions like constant moisture and high torque at lower RPMs.
► What are signs that my lower unit needs service?
Milky or cloudy lubricant is an indication of water intrusion. Metal flakes are a sign of an internal gearcase issue and should be inspected immediately.
Have questions about your Honda outboard oil capacity?
- Check our Honda oil capacity guide for more info!
Looking for other manufacturer gear lube capacity guides?
- Suzuki Gear Lube Guide
- Evinrude Gear Lube Guide
- MerCruiser Gear Lube Guide
- Johnson Gear Lube Guide
- Mercury Gear Lube Guide
- Yamaha Gear Lube Guide
Still have questions or need extra help? Reach out and let our experts provide the advice you need. For quick assistance give us a call at 877-388-2628 or email sales@wholesalemarine.com and we'll be sure to get back to you promptly!