I work for a major branded lubricant company and can tell you that someone other than Mercury is making there oil. We make marine lubricants which are for sale under our brand as well as brands for other companies. While I am not knocking the opti oil at all because it is probably a really good product or Mercury would not put it's name on it. I have a lot of respect for Mercury and their products that is the reason I have owned two Mercury engines in the last 6 years. However my point is, more than likely it is one of only a few companies capable of packing marine lubricants. I have owned two Mercury Optimax's since 2000 and have never placed anything other than my companies brand in the engine. Our product exceeds TCW3 specs and provides a warranty against any damage that would be caused by our product. The same applies for Mercury's Fuel System Cleaner products, etc. This warranty is offered to everyone who purchases our product. In addition, similar type warranties are offered by most major lubricant companies who are worth their salt. I am not hesitant in the least to run our product in my engine. I have also heard the same rumors about running 89 octane but can tell you that if you read your manual you will find out otherwise.

In closing I would be concerned about placing a private label type product in my engine just because I know what "some" companies will do in order to get the business, especially the business at Wal*Mart. I have seen lubricant packaging companies us recycled oil to produce all kinds of lubricant products. At times quality is not an issue, but the lowest price is.