Oil Change at Beginning of Season or End of Season?

[ncridgerunner]

Averaging around 100 hours on my mower each season, I have always changed the oil and filter at the end of the season before winterizing my machine. I have never had an oil related problem but recently an acquaintance insisted that the oil should be changed at the beginning of the season because oil changed at the end of the season is subject to collecting impurities while sitting unused over the winter.

Is there any evidence that either choice is best or is it more a personal choice?

 

[Skippydiesel]

The only significant "impurities" the crankcase oil may collect is water vapour.
The next time you use the machine AND it gets to its loaded (working) running temperature, for at least 30 minutes, the water vapour will be driven off.

I live in Australia (opposite seasons to you). I have always done my annual small motor servicing, between Christmas & New Year - annual summer holidays BUT about mid season grass growing . Works for me!

 

[GearHead36]

I prefer beginning of season. I also check the shroud and cooling fins to make sure Micky & Minnie haven't moved in.

 

[Auto Doc's]

Hello N.,

I have been servicing my equipment at the beginning of the cutting season for many years.

It also provides an opportune time to address any little problems and correct them before they become big ones.

 

[Ozcub]

Start of mowing season works for me , nice fresh oil nothing better
I live just down the road from Skippy Diesel so what he said

 

[ncridgerunner]

Thanks Guys! It's ironic but I just heard a rerun of the Under The Hood Show which is mostly about cars but this subject was brought up. These car guys recommended changing oil at the end of the season because the old oil had contaminates that could promote internal problems over a period of time.

At this time though it is my belief that the best thing to do is change the oil regularly and everyone should choose the time that best fits for them.