ZR6 oil level fluctuation

[Jbousman88]

So I had our nautique serviced this year for an oil change as I ran out of time to do it myself before season. Reputable dealer with no issues ever from them. Boat sitting on trailer shows at the add line even when boat is level. Also where do I check to see if it’s level? Swim platform will show level while side of boat will not etc etc. where is a good point to check? Manual says boat should be in normal resting positing either on water or on trailer when checking oil. Literally pulled it home and it sat for a day and showed over full. Reinserted dip stick and it showed at the add line. Seems to fluctuate quite a bit and also takes awhile when checking to get it all to settle back in pan and on stick.

point I’m getting at is I HIGHLY doubt I’m using oil but how much does the level mess with this? Any input is appreciated.

[hal2814]

It’s best to check in the water with ballast tanks empty. That will give you the most consistent reading. Level on a trailer will probably get you close enough but I only trust that as far as getting me to the water to do a final check.

[jkallen21]

Ive never checked mine on the trailer, but the oil should settle pretty quickly back into the pan (2-3 minutes) in hot weather. Maybe a little longer if they used a really heavy weight oil (which I have done in the ZR6 because the oil pressure indicator can blip on/off coming off plane quickly - like to pick up a fallen skier).
This actually made me curious if people often checked it on the trailer or not so I googled it and found this as part of an exhaustive (and humorous) thread:

You can ONLY check your oil if the following conditions are met.

1) It must be on an odd number calendar day.

2) Boat must be on the water with the sun at its highest point.

3) Boat must be facing true magnetic north.

4) If you have any passengers they must stand at the front of the boat facing away from the engine. (shortest in the front)

5) Pull the dipstick from the engine very slowly while saying the pledge of allegiance to the flag.

6) Wipe the oil from the stick with a brand new 100% white virgin cotton tee shirt.

7) If the oil is exactly .033" (use calipers) below the full line you may proceed with having a good day on the water.

Hopefully that will help!

[Jbousman88]

Literally found this exact thing on a Malibu thread!!! It seems the level of the boat on trailer just can make a difference. As long as its not over full or empty then we are rolling!!!