PCM Oil Capacity Guide

Why Fresh Engine Oil Matters for Your PCM Engine

Changing the engine oil in your PCM boat engine is one of the most important steps in keeping it reliable and performing at its best. Clean oil keeps internal components lubricated, minimizes friction, and wear. It also helps flush out contaminants that naturally build up during normal engine use.

Marine engines face unique stress compared to automotive engines. They run for long periods under heavy loads, often at high ROMs, and are in constant contact to water. That's why routine oil changes are essential to prevent corrosion, overheating, and premature engine wear.

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Table of Contents

Why Choose OEM Engine Oils? Proper PCM Engine Maintenance Crankcase Capacity Chart Tips & Frequently Asked Questions

Why Use Marine Grade Engine Oil?

Unlike automotive oils, marine engine oil is specifically formulated to handle the demands of boat engines. Marine oil includes enhanced corrosion inhibitors and anti-foaming additives. These protect against mositure and aeration from constant water exposure and long operating cycles.

There are 3 types of marine oil you can buy. They come in a sort of good, better, and better lineup. Whether you use a mineral-based or synthetic marine oil, always make sure it meets the viscosity and performance specifications recommended for your PCM engine.

Check out our breakdown of each oil type below.

Grade Oil Type Highlights
Good Mineral/Conventional Cheapest option, breaks down faster requiring more frequent oil changes
Better Semi-Synthetic Better cold-start protection, resists breakdown, balances cost and performance
Best Full Synthetic Maximum protection, higher upfront cost but longer lasting

Proper Pleasurecraft Marine Engine Oil Maintenance Schedule

Initial Break In Service 

For new engines it is recommended to change the oil and filter after the first ~20 hours of run time. This removes any contaminants or metal particles from the break in process.

Every 100 Hours of Annually

Change your oil and filter every 100 hours of operation or once a year, whichever comes first. This helps maintain lubrication quality and engine efficiency.

End of Season Oil Change

Before winterizing or long term storage, it is recommended to change your engine oil. Old oil can hold acids, contaminants, and moisture that can accumulate during use. Letting these sit in your system can lead to internal corrosion and costly repairs down the line.

PCM Oil Change Tip:

Warm up your engine before draining your oil, this helps contaminants flow out more easily and ensures for a cleaner oil change.

PCM Oil 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 the PCM Oil Capacity Chart Below

Model Year Crankcase Capacity L Crankcase Capacity Qt Recommended Engine Oil
200   See Owners Manual See Owners Manual See Owners Manual
220   See Owners Manual See Owners Manual See Owners Manual
8200   See Owners Manual See Owners Manual See Owners Manual
8240   See Owners Manual See Owners Manual See Owners Manual
230   See Owners Manual See Owners Manual See Owners Manual
280   See Owners Manual See Owners Manual See Owners Manual
300   See Owners Manual See Owners Manual See Owners Manual
350   See Owners Manual See Owners Manual See Owners Manual
5.0L MPI (Remote Oil Filter) 2007 & Older 3.8 L 4.0 Qt 15W-40 API SL or Higher
5.7L MPI (Remote Oil Filter) 2007 & Older 3.8 L 4.0 Qt
6.0L MPI (Remote Oil Filter) 2007 & Older 4.75 L 5.0 Qt
5.0L MPI (Serial 473065 & Up) (Remote Oil Filter) 2007-2009 3.8 L  4.0 Qt
EX 343 (Serial 473065 & Up) (Remote Oil Filter) 2007-2012 3.8 L 4.0 Qt
ZR6 390 (Serial 470365 & Up) (Remote Oil Filter) 2007 4.75 L 5.0 Qt
5.0L Pro Sport Catanium CES (Remote Oil Filter) 2008-2010 4.5 L 4.75 Qt
5.7L EX343 Catanium CES (Remote Oil Filter) 2008-2016 4.5 L 4.75 Qt "Below 50° 5W-30 Semi Synth Above 50° 15W-40 SM or Higher"
6.0L ZR-409 Catanium CES (Remote Oil Filter) 2011-2016 4.75 L 5.0 Qt 15W-40 API SM or Higher
6.0L MPI ZR409 (Remote Oil Filters) 2009-2010 4.75 L 5.0 Qt
HO303 MPI 2010-Older 3.8 L 4.0 Qt
HO303 Catanium CES 2001-2016 3.8 L 4.0 Qt "Below 50° 5W-30 Semi Synth Above 50° 15W-40 SM or Higher"
ZR450 Catanium Ces 2011-2012 3.8 L 4.0 Qt 15W-40 API SM or Higher
ZR550 6.2L MPI 2011-2012 3.8 L 4.0 Qt 5W-30 Full Synthetic

PCM Crankcase Oil FAQs

► What type of oil should I use in my PCM engine?

Use high-quality marine-grade oil with the viscosity recommended in your owner’s manual. Typically SAE 5W-30 for newer engines or 15W-40 for older ones.

► How often should I change my PCM engine oil?

After the first 20 hours for break-in, then every 100 hours or at least once a season. Change more frequently under heavy use.

► Can I use automotive oil in a PCM engine?

It’s not recommended. Marine engines operate under different conditions and need oil formulated to resist foaming, corrosion, and high-load operation.

► Why does my oil look milky after an oil change?

Milky oil usually means water has entered the crankcase, possibly through a failed gasket, cracked block, or condensation buildup. Do not run the engine. Drain and replace the oil, identify the source of intrusion, and correct it before operating again.

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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!