If your vessel has been fitted with a genuine Volvo Penta engine, it is recommended that you check its oil levels every single time you are about to put it into the water. This is to prevent damage from occurring due to the engine containing too much or too little oil. It really isn’t too difficult to check the oil levels and will take you all of 30 seconds.
Step 1: Take your torque screwdriver and unscrew the dipstick on the top of your engine. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean on a lint-free cloth, and re-insert it into the oil tank (make sure that it goes in as far as it can go).
Step 2: Remove the dipstick again and inspect the flat part near the bottom; the oil level, to be considered normal, should fall somewhere on this flat part.
Step 3: If the level does not reach the flat part of your dipstick, you will need to add more (in small amounts) to the engine. Make sure that you re-check the levels after each pour.
Step 4: Screw the dipstick back into the top of your engine, making sure that you secure it with the torque screwdriver. Your vessel is now ready to embark on your next water adventure.
When checking the oil levels of your Volvo Penta engine, it is also a good idea to inspect the colouring of the oil in your tank. It should be amber – if it appears milky, this means that water has found its way into the tank and you will need to take the engine to your local dealer to rectify the problem.