Opinions on oil change intervals on lightly used boats

[98Shabah]

What are your thoughts on how often to change the motor oil in a boat that is only used 20 hours a season? The oil in my 3.0l was last changed in november 2009 with mobil 1 15w50, I used the boat about 20 hrs this season, the oil still looks as clean and clear as the day it was put in. The boat is trailered and stored in a garage.

 

[dbkerley]

Re: Opinions on oil change intervals on lightly used boats

I haven't taken mine out at all this year and just changed the oil about a week ago.

 

[Howard Sterndrive]

Re: Opinions on oil change intervals on lightly used boats

change it once a year. best before layup.

 

[rbh]

Re: Opinions on oil change intervals on lightly used boats

Your call, but I wouldn't if it still is looking clean and that that low of hours.
I would do the leg because that always seems to go milky on ours.
(need new o-ring someplace)

 

[sethjon]

Re: Opinions on oil change intervals on lightly used boats

What are your thoughts on how often to change the motor oil in a boat that is only used 20 hours a season? The oil in my 3.0l was last changed in november 2009 with mobil 1 15w50, I used the boat about 20 hrs this season, the oil still looks as clean and clear as the day it was put in. The boat is trailered and stored in a garage.

You probably could get away without changing it until next season, but oil is cheap and it remove any doubt or worry if you change it.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Opinions on oil change intervals on lightly used boats

Ayuh,... Annually....
I also prefer it at winter lay-up, as it'll remove any acids, 'n other contaminates, instead of stewin' in it all winter...

 

[98Shabah]

Re: Opinions on oil change intervals on lightly used boats

Thanks for all the input guys.

 

[jerryjerry05]

Re: Opinions on oil change intervals on lightly used boats

The boat's used in the water. Lots of moisture and condensation maybe salt in the air??Most oil changes the oil looks new as there is no dirt in the air.
The WORST thing for a boat is letting it set.Get out there and run it in the driveway.Use the T+T, spray it with WD-40 on the rams. Keep the kids away and put it in and out of gear.Let it warm up.Turn on the blower and bildge pump etc.J

 

[JoLin]

Re: Opinions on oil change intervals on lightly used boats

Change it at winter layup. What wasn't mentioned is that following the oil/filter change, you should run the motor one more time, bringing it up to operating temp. before you put it into hibernation.

That'll flush any residual, contaminated oil from the rotating parts and coat them with clean stuff. Anyway, that's my method.

 

[xxxflhrci]

Re: Opinions on oil change intervals on lightly used boats

Since it's garaged, and trailered, I'd consider letting it ride another year....I have more than one older vehicle that goes for a year or two before it gets an oil change.

 

[FreeBeeTony]

Re: Opinions on oil change intervals on lightly used boats

I don't think you use your boat enough!!..........just my $0.02.....

 

[ziggy]

Re: Opinions on oil change intervals on lightly used boats

i'm with the change the oil gang. for reasons previously stated..

you should run the motor one more time, bringing it up to operating temp. before you put it into hibernation.

agreed. for me, that happens when right before i fog it. if i remember right. fogging it is the last time the engine runs prior to next season..

 

[Brentathon]

Re: Opinions on oil change intervals on lightly used boats

I change mine once a year, before lay-up.
Always good to "store" engines with new oil.

 

[98Shabah]

Re: Opinions on oil change intervals on lightly used boats

Yeah, I don't think so either! Too many limiting factors in play this summer.. our spring vacation to Mexico sucked up my boating funds, my work schedule, the wife's work schedule, high water for most of the summer on the 2 big rivers nearby, etc. I hope to get it out at least once more before I winterize it.

I don't think you use your boat enough!!..........just my $0.02.....