Fueling Your Fun: What Gas for a Suzuki Outboard?

Peak boating season is in full swing, and the last thing anyone wants is a day of fun cut short by engine trouble. One of the most common questions we get from fellow boaters is also one of the most important: “What gas should I use for my Suzuki outboard?”

Using the right fuel is critical for your motor’s performance, reliability, and long-term health. Choosing the wrong type can lead to poor performance and even costly damage down the road. But don’t worry! We’re here to break it down and make it simple.

The Quick Answer: Your Go-To Fuel Choices

For the vast majority of Suzuki 4-stroke outboards, the fuel requirements are straightforward.

• Octane Rating: 87 octane gasoline is the standard recommendation.
• Ethanol Content: Ethanol-free (E0) gasoline is ALWAYS the best choice if you can find it. If not, gasoline with up to 10% ethanol (E10) is acceptable.
• The Big NO: NEVER use E15 or E85 gasoline in your Suzuki outboard. This is not a suggestion. It’s a rule that will protect your engine from serious damage.

Diving Deeper: Understanding Octane and Ethanol

So, why these specific recommendations? Let’s explore the two most important factors: octane and ethanol.

What’s the Deal with Octane?

Octane is a rating of a fuel’s ability to resist “knocking” or “pinging” during combustion. It’s a measure of stability, not a measure of power. Your Suzuki outboard is engineered to run perfectly and efficiently on 87 octane fuel.

Using higher octane fuel, like 89 or 93, in an engine designed for 87 will not provide any performance benefits. It won’t make your engine more powerful or run cleaner. Your wallet will just be lighter! Stick with the recommended 87 octane for optimal performance.

Ethanol-Free is the Gold Standard

Ethanol is a type of alcohol that's added to gasoline. It can cause serious damage to your outboard motor for a number of reasons, including:

• Water Absorption: Ethanol attracts and absorbs water from the air. The water separates from the gasoline and leaves a layer of water at the bottom of your fuel tank. If this water gets into your engine, it might run poorly or stall completely.
• Fuel System Damage: Over time, ethanol degrades and can dissolve rubber and plastic components found in older fuel lines and fuel system parts, leading to clogs and leaks.

Because ethanol-free fuel can sometimes be hard to find, E10 (up to 10% ethanol) is approved for use. However, if you are using E10 fuel, it becomes even more important to use your boat regularly and treat your fuel with a quality marine fuel stabilizer.

Best Practices for Fueling Your Suzuki

Now that you know what gas to use for your Suzuki outboard, here are a few pro tips to ensure every drop is good for your engine:

• Use Fresh Fuel: Gasoline can go stale in as little as 30 to 60 days. Try to only buy as much fuel as you expect to use in the near future.
• Use a Fuel Stabilizer: A quality marine fuel stabilizer is your best friend, especially if you use E10 gasoline or if your boat sits for more than a few weeks at a time. It prevents phase separation, keeps fuel fresh, and protects your fuel system.
• Buy from Trusted Sources: Always purchase your fuel from a busy, reputable gas station to ensure you’re getting fresh, clean gasoline.

Fueling your Suzuki outboard correctly is one of the easiest ways to ensure it delivers the legendary performance and reliability you expect. Just remember the golden rules: fresh 87 octane, ethanol-free if possible (E10 max), and NEVER E15.

Got more questions about keeping your Suzuki in top shape? Reach out to the Suzuki Outboard Team.