A reader asks: Do you have a replacement for Evinrude/Johnson HPF Pro High Performance Gearcase Lubricant? The label doesn’t show the viscosity of the product, so I’m not sure what to use.
Our answer: Yes we have a direct alternative for Evinrude HPF Gearcase Oil. AMSOIL Synthetic 75W-90 Marine Gear Lube is an ideal substitute for the HPF Marine Gearcase oil sold at BRP/Evinrude/Johnson dealerships. We have verified that the HPF Pro High Performance Gearcase Lubricant is in the 75W-90 range. So there is no issue with going with AMSOIL Marine Gear Lube in Evinrude or Johnson lower units and stern drives.
As a bonus, the AMSOIL Marine Gear Lube sells for roughly half the retail price of HPF Pro High Performance Gearcase Lubricant at Evinrude dealers.
Is Evinrude/Johnson HPF Pro High Performance Gearcase Lubricant A Synthetic Oil?
It doesn’t appear so. The BRP/Evinrude website refers only to the HPF Pro Gearcase Lubricant containing “synthetic E-P additives”. BRP does not describe the product as being a full or partially synthetic. This would imply to us that the HPF Pro product is a conventional lubricant. AMSOIL Synthetic 75W-90 Marine Gear Lube is a 100% synthetic oil. On this basis alone, we would deem AMSOIL as an upgrade over HPF Pro.
Why Doesn’t BRP/Evinrude/Johnson Publish the Viscosity Of HPF Gearcase Oil?
There’s a simple answer for that. BRP (Bombardier Recreational Products) doesn’t want you to know the weight or viscosity of their marine gearcase oil. If a consumer is in the dark about the viscosity of the OEM gearcase oil, they will be much more hesitant to buy an aftermarket option. Look for this trend to continue in the powersports industry. Although this ruse is a refreshing departure from the usual threats of warranty denial for using aftermarket oil. BRP is one of the worst culprits for strong-arming customers in this fashion.
The Virtues Of AMSOIL Synthetic 75W-90 Marine Gear Lube
AMSOIL Marine Gear Lube is ideal for any brand of stern drive, lower unit, V-drive or tunnel thruster requiring the API GL-4 or GL-5 spec. In other words, it is basically universal and can cover most any marine application. It lowers friction, fights wear, prevents foaming and has world class anti-rust/corrosion capabilities. To conclude, this quality AMSOIL synthetic gear oil is a great choice for any marine gearcase.
