Recommended Gear Lube and Service Tips for OMC Cobra Drives
Keeping your OMC Cobra sterndrive properly maintained is essential to ensure smooth shifting, long gear life, and reliable performance on the water. An often overlooked step, is checking and changing your gear lube. Using the right gear lube helps protect against corrosion, reduce wear, and maintain efficiency of your lower unit.
For the best protection, use marine grade gearcase lubricants. BRP's XPS gear lube is specifically formualted for use with OMC Cobra drives. This premium lubricant provides superior wear protection, guards against water instrusion, and resists foam. The advanced formula is ideal for demanding marine conditions while providing you long-lasting lubrication.
Table of Contents
| Proper Evinrude Gearcase Maintenance | Gear Lube Chart | Tips & Frequently Asked Questions |
Proper OMC Cobra Gearcase Maintenance
20 Hour Break In Service
For new OMC Cobra engines, you should change the gear lube after the first 20 hours of runtime or within the first month. This helps remove any metal shavings or contaminants generated during the break in process.
100 Hours or Annually
OMC recommends changing your gear lube every 100 hours of run time or at least once a season, whichever comes first. By regularly servicing your OMC your can ensure proper lubrication that reducess stress on the lower unit while maintaining smooth shifting and performance.
End of Season
When the season is over and you go to put your boat away for the season there are several maintenance steps to take. An important one is replacing your gear lube. Old gear lube can gather water, debris, and contaminants from use during the season. Letting them sit in your system can lead to costly repairs down the doad. Fresh gear lube ensures your OMC Cobra gearcase is fully protected until the next season.
OMC Cobra Gear Lube Capacity Chart
Please nore 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 | Capacity Oz | Recommended Gear Lube |
| 2.3L, 128 Model | 60 | |
| 2.5L | 60 | |
| 3.0L (1990-93) | 64 | |
| 3.0L 130 Model | 60 | |
| 4.3L 175 Model | 64 | |
| 5.0L | 64 | |
| 5.7L, 260 Model | 64 | |
| 7.5L | 108 | |
| 1990-93 3.0L, 3.0L HO | 64 | |
| 185,200,235 Models | 64 | |
| 262 OMC King Cobra | 64 | |
| 350 OMC King Cobra | 64 | |
| 460 OMC King Cobra | 108 | |
| 460 OMC King Cobra (Cone Clutch) | 103 | |
| 1990-94 King Cobra (Cone Clutch) | 103 | |
| 1994-Thru Cobra (Cone Clutch) | 71 | |
| 1996-Thru Dual Prop | 81 | |
| 1977-86 | 20 | |
| OMC Sail Drive |
OMC Cobra Gear Lube FAQs
► What type of gear lube should I use in my OMC Cobra Drive?
Always use marine grade gear lube for maximum protection and performance.
► How often should I change my OMC gear lube?
OMC Cobra 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 OMC Cobra Drive?
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 OMC Drive oil capacity?
- Check our OMC 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!