FC-W Catalyst Compatible Four-Stroke Oil Certification Program

Historically, gasoline-powered inboard and inboard/outboard (sterndrive) boats have been equipped with four-stroke cycle engines. With growing interest and legislation in reducing marine engine emissions, these four-stroke cycle engines are now appearing with exhaust after-treatment. In recognition of emerging four-stroke cycle engines with catalysts in the marine market and their unique lubrication demands, the NMMA initiated the development of a new four-stroke cycle engine oil specification, “NMMA FC-W Catalyst Compatible^_®.”

The need to protect the catalysts adds another dimension to the lubrication demands of marine engines whose duty cycles have always discriminated them from over-the-road light and heavy duty automotive engines. High loads, high speeds, and exposure to high levels of humidity and salt water are just a few of the unique characteristics found in marine engines.

This new catalyst-compatible standard draws heavily on the experience and success of the earlier NMMA FC-W^_® standard, which was developed to meet the needs of large and technically advanced four-stroke cycle marine engines. These include four-stroke cycle outboard engines, which are now taking the place of some conventional two-stroke cycle outboard engines. As a result, the new catalyst-compatible standard can provide the performance required for engines that would otherwise call for NMMA FC-W^_® lubricants.

This new catalyst-compatible specification follows the longstanding and successful tradition of BIA TC-W, NMMA TC-WII^_®, NMMA TC-W3^_®, and NMMA FC-W^_® programs to assist boaters and manufacturers in identifying the proper engine oils which have been specially formulated to withstand the rigors of use in marine engines. The NMMA FC-W Catalyst Compatible^_® specification is intended to support the industry in providing long term durability, power and overall consumer satisfaction with marine engines utilizing catalyst after-treatment.