Quicksilver Performance DFI 2-Stroke Oil is engineered to meet the specific demands of modern two-stroke outboard engines with direct fuel injection. DFI technology (as found in Mercury OptiMax, Yamaha HPDI, Evinrude E-TEC) imposes higher requirements on the oil – greater pressures, temperatures, and a need for exceptionally clean combustion. This oil rises to those challenges through a modified base stock and synthetic additive package that greatly reduces carbon deposits on pistons, rings, and in combustion chambers. A cleaner engine translates into better compression, less wear, and preserved performance over time.
In addition to keeping the engine clean, Performance DFI provides superior lubrication to all moving parts. Its high film strength prevents metal-to-metal contact between piston and cylinder, protecting against scuffing or scratching of cylinder walls under extreme RPM and heavy loads. This is critical for DFI engines, which often run leaner fuel mixtures and at high operating parameters.
The oil is designed and tested to reduce smoke and odor typically associated with two-strokes. Thanks to cleaner burning and ashless detergents, your boat won’t be engulfed in a cloud of blue smoke every time you throttle up. This improves the user experience and is kinder to the environment as well.
Quicksilver Performance DFI fully meets the NMMA TC-W3 standard (and exceeds it in certain aspects), meaning it is compatible with all manufacturers’ specifications for two-stroke oils requiring this class. It can also be used in conventional two-stroke engines (carbureted or EFI) that operate under severe conditions and would benefit from the extra protection and cleanliness of the Performance DFI oil.
Typical use cases:
- Direct fuel-injected 2-stroke outboards: Mercury/Mariner OptiMax, Yamaha HPDI, Evinrude E-TEC, Nissan/Tohatsu TLDI, etc., where the manufacturer recommends a high-performance oil
- Tournament fishing boats, high-speed RIBs, and other vessels equipped with DFI engines that are run hard (long runs, sport fishing, water sports) – Performance DFI provides reliability under these conditions
- Suitable for standard 2-stroke outboards (carbureted or EFI) as well, especially under heavy use – e.g., commercial operations or if you simply want extra protection beyond a basic TC-W3 oil
- Personal Watercraft (jet skis) with 2-stroke engines, particularly models with direct injection or those requiring low-smoke, high-performance oil – it reduces ring and exhaust valve deposits
- Any 2-stroke engine where minimizing smoke and odor is a priority (such as in environmentally sensitive lakes or areas) – the synthetic blend of Performance DFI meets these needs
Usage and Mixing Guidelines:
- Oil Injection Systems: Simply keep your oil reservoir filled with Quicksilver Performance DFI. Check the oil level regularly – especially in DFI engines which might have smaller oil tanks. Top off as necessary and avoid letting the system run dry.
- Premix Systems: Mix Performance DFI into gasoline at the manufacturer’s recommended ratio (e.g., 50:1 or 100:1, depending on the engine). Use a clean container and measure accurately – DFI engines are sensitive to correct oil ratios.
- Compatibility: You can safely mix this oil with other certified TC-W3 oils in the tank if needed (though for optimal results it’s best to use only Performance DFI). If switching from a conventional oil to Performance DFI, try to run down the old oil as much as possible before adding.
- Engine Maintenance: Even with this premium oil, adhere to other DFI engine recommendations – use high-quality fuel, replace spark plugs and fuel filters regularly. Performance DFI will keep internals clean, but external maintenance is also key to peak performance.
- Storage: If the engine will be idle for an extended period (e.g., off-season storage), perform fogging or follow the manufacturer’s lay-up procedure. Performance DFI provides good corrosion protection, but extra cylinder preservation is advisable for long idle periods.
- Monitoring: Watch your exhaust – a significantly reduced haze and lack of heavy black residue are indicators that Performance DFI is doing its job. If you observe excessive smoke or rough running, check engine settings or fuel quality, as the oil is unlikely to be the cause.



