What kind of coolant should I use?
GM tests all their engines using long life DEX-COOL coolant. Therefore, Crusader recommends DEX-COOL or any good extended life coolant (pink/orange in color) mixed 50% DEX-COOL to 50% water for engines that have a closed cooling system. More than 50% coolant can contribute to overheating. Do not mix or substitute DEX-COOL with traditional silicated coolant (green in color).
What type of oil should I use?
The recommended oil for most of our engines is 15W-40 conventional oil. If the engine is an XR7 or XS7 the recommended oil is 5W-30 synthetic oil.
Can I use synthetic oil in my Challenger engine?
Synthetic oils are not recommended for use in Challenger engines. Synthetic oils may offer advantages in cold temperature pumpability and high temperature oxidation-resistance. However, synthetic oils have not proven to provide operational or economic benefits over conventional petroleum based oils in Crusader engines. Their use does not permit the extension of oil change intervals.
When should I change my oil?
When an engine is brand new, the oil should be changed after 25 hours of operation. Engine oil should be changed every 50 hours or once per year, whichever comes first.
What is Crusader’s policy on the use of Ethanol?
The implementation of ethanol-based fuel is spreading rapidly throughout the United States . The end user of our engines might well be concerned regarding the use of this fuel. As such, Challenger Engines provides the following policy statement regarding the use of this fuel.
This notification addresses the use of ethanol fuels IN CHALLENGER ENGINES ONLY. It does not address the use of ethanol fuels in vessel related components such as boat gas tanks, boat fuel lines, boat fuel filters, etc. The boat owner is STRONGLY ENCOURAGED to contact the boat builder regarding the suitability of ethanol fuel usage in their vessel.
Ethanol blended fuel rated E10 or less is acceptable to use.
Fuels rated higher than E10 SHOULD NOT BE USED.
Ethanol fuels rated higher than E10 could potentially damage the engine and/or present an unsafe boating condition. Damage to the engine resulting from the use of ethanol fuel rated higher than E10 is not covered by the warranty.
With today’s rising gasoline prices, what octane rating is recommended for my Pleasurecraft engine?
Crusader fuel injected engines are calibrated to operate on 87 octane fuel and maximum performance is obtained when using this fuel. The ignition timing set by the factory requires the use of a high-quality lead free regular gasoline with an octane specification of (R+M/2).
What type of transmission fluid should I use?
The only certified transmission fluid is Dexron III.
How often should I change my transmission fluid?
Transmission fluid should be changed once every year, using Dexron III transmission fluid.
Where can I find my engine owner’s manual?
Most owner’s manuals can be found under the support tab on our website.
Where can I purchase parts for my Challenger Engine?
Under our Dealer Locator tab you will be able to find your local dealer that will be able to assist you with all of your servicing and parts concerns.
Can I do my own maintenance?
Yes you can do your own maintenance. Keep in mind that there is a maintenance log in your engine owner’s manual to help you keep track of all that you have done.