motor oil storage & life

[hikerpat]

Hi, - After opening a bottle of motor oil, for how long is it good? I have some that has been open about 4 years. Just doesn't make sense to by yet another bottle every Spring. Thanks.

 

[reynoldston]

Never heard of motor oil going bad by just sitting. Maybe someone knows something I don't?? Now this has that magic word oil in it so no BS stories here.

 

[lzn197]

I had some oil stored in the basement for over 20 years in the original plastic bottles. High end Valvoline 30W turbo oil. Opened it up and it looked fine and used it in the old Cub Cadet. No problems. Remember to follow manufacturers recommendations on oil and don't use 20 year old oil in a newer, modern engine.

 

[Sprinkler Buddy]

Oil has a shelf life much longer than our own.

 

[Carscw]

Well we sure do love talking about O I L
I think on this one we can all agree that O I L really does not go bad as long as the top is on tight so no trash can get in it.

 

[davbell22602]

New unused oil doesnt go bad longs the lid is on tight. Its not like brake fluid that has shelf life after opening.

 

[hikerpat]

I just love a consensus! The oil has been stored in original bottles, in a closet, in a finished basement, with lids affixed properly. Wish all my questions (other sites/forums) could be answered as well as you all have here. Happy Spring mowing!

 

[Carscw]

I just love a consensus! The oil has been stored in original bottles, in a closet, in a finished basement, with lids affixed properly. Wish all my questions (other sites/forums) could be answered as well as you all have here. Happy Spring mowing!

Yes this went rather well.

Ha ha you got lucky and found five of us to agree on something.

OIL is good way to start arguments on here.
Welcome to the forum. Hope you stick around.
Post a pic of your mower.

 

[wjjones]

Yes this went rather well.

Ha ha you got lucky and found five of us to agree on something.

OIL is good way to start arguments on here.
Welcome to the forum. Hope you stick around.
Post a pic of your mower.

I agree too.:laughing:..:thumbsup:

 

[hikerpat]

For the gentleman from Tennessee, who wanted me to post pics of my mower, I will assume that when I click "submit reply" that they will be viewable.
It's a Honda variable speed walk behind. Great mower, if you don't mind the backfiring when I stop it, then start it too soon after stopping. If I wait several minutes, no problem. And no way to get it to the store for repair and no money to pay for it (unless the 4 year warranty covers carb problems - doubtful).