Fluid change yearly or by hours?

Joined
Feb 5, 2020
Messages
34
Location
South Carolina
2017 Yamaha 115 SHO. I changed the oil and foot oil last year and put very few hours on it since. Probably less than 25. (I used Yamalube full synthetic.) What are some thoughts?
 
Google told me your engine does not have an open breather, so you could probably go 3-5 more years at that hour rate.
Obligatory check your oil anyway because age also causes cracks in things over that span of time.
 
I wouldnt have a problem running it another year or normal oci (if its a heavy use year)
 
On the jet boat forum people are pretty paranoid about yearly oil and spark plug changes. I know those are inboards but similar environment. I run my jet boat in saltwater and will see how many hours I put on it this year. I changed the oil at 10 hours from new per the manual but I don't know why they spec that.
 
Engine oil should be fine with low hours.

I always check my lower unit oil for water every season (preferably before freezing weather). Just loosen the bottom plug and check for water, or if you recently ran it, check for cloudy oil.
 
Engine oil should be fine with low hours.

I always check my lower unit oil for water every season (preferably before freezing weather). Just loosen the bottom plug and check for water, or if you recently ran it, check for cloudy oil.
I think checking the lower unit for water intrusion every year is a good idea.

But on my VP DuoProp you need to pull both props to get to the plug. They did not make it easy.
 
I don't put a lot of hours on my boat. But I always check the lower end for water before winter. Sub zero temps at my place so any water in it will freeze and break something expensive. I've seen housings cracked from freezing.
 
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