How much oil does a Yanmar 3GM30F take, and what oil and fuel filters fit it?
I'm servicing the Yanmar 3GM30F in my boat and want to buy the oil and filters from a local motor factors. How much oil does it take, and what aftermarket oil and fuel filter numbers should I ask for?
Answer
The Yanmar 3GM30F takes about 2.6 litres, or 2.75 US quarts of engine oil; refill gradually and use the dipstick to set the final level. For the usual original filter housings, use Yanmar 119305-35170 for the oil filter and 104500-55710 for the engine-mounted fuel element as starting references, then ask your motor factor to confirm the equivalents.
Check the plate and dipstick
Check that the identification plate says 3GM30F and note the serial number before ordering. The F identifies the freshwater-cooled version, which circulates coolant through a heat exchanger; it does not identify the separate fuel filter or water separator fitted by the boatbuilder.
Check the oil level with the engine stopped and the oil settled. Record it as a baseline. An unexpectedly high level, especially if the oil smells of diesel, needs investigation before a routine refill.
The nominal capacity is a guide. Installation angle and oil left behind during extraction affect how much you need to add. Start with about 2.0 litres, let it settle, then add small amounts towards the upper dipstick mark. Run briefly to fill the new filter, stop, wait several minutes and check again. Never pour in the full stated capacity without checking.
The gearbox has its own lubricant supply and capacity. The engine's 2.6-litre figure does not include it.
Choose the oil grade
SAE 15W-40 diesel engine oil is the usual choice for a 3GM30F in temperate boating conditions. Yanmar guidance also includes SAE 10W-30, particularly for colder starts. Follow the temperature chart and specification in your engine's handbook.
These engines were specified around older diesel API categories such as CC/CD. Choose an oil whose manufacturer confirms suitability for that requirement or this Yanmar application. A newer API designation alone does not establish suitability. Petrol-only oil is unsuitable.
A five-litre container covers the change and later top-ups. Keep the container, funnel and filler opening clean. Record the oil brand, viscosity and specification for future top-ups.
Oil and fuel filter numbers
For a standard 3GM30F installation, start with these catalogue references: