Does 2 cycle oil go bad?

[DocBob]

I'm working on an engine that hasn't been started in a few years. <br />I've changed the gas, cleaned the filters and carbs, checked the low unit oil, changed the plugs, and have a pair of muffs to run the water through the engine.<br />I was wondering though, this engine is equipped with an oil injection system that is close to full. Does the two cycle oil ever go bad, or am I safe to use it???<br />Any other last minute suggestions before I try cranking it over?<br />Thanks

 

[12Footer]

Re: Does 2 cycle oil go bad?

The oil should be fine, provided no condensate got in it. This would be visable,as a streaking. The oil should be an abvious ,consistant color.<br /><br />You asked if there was anything overlooked, and the one thing that stands-out, is trhe impeller. It may have been brand new when this engine was mothballed, but it has "taken a set", or retained the shape of the pump housing. It qill werk fine for a short time, then, it will fly appart.

 

[DocBob]

Re: Does 2 cycle oil go bad?

Thanks 12 footer. I had planned to change the impeller before getting out on the water, but hadn't thought about it "taking a set"... that makes sense. Should I change it out right now, or will it be ok to just make sure the engine actually runs before worrying about tearing down the lower unit?

 

[12Footer]

Re: Does 2 cycle oil go bad?

It should hold up fine for low-rpm testing purposes. If you have no telltale after one minute at idle, shut-down and go ahead and pull the l/u. (at least you'll know it's running).<br />They sometimes hang in there for a long time. A cowerker was warned to change the impeller on a motor he bought on an old boat. That boat had not moved for 4 years that I was aware of. He did not head my warning, and got at least 40 hours out of it. He would come into werk and give me the "nanny-nanny-boo-boo" every Monday for quite a while.<br />Then, one moring, he came in with the long face (LOL).