Originally Posted by Ihatetochangeoil
Originally Posted by geeman789
Originally Posted by oldhp
My 20+ year old Murray 3.5HP Briggs has had everything from 0W20 to 20W50 Harley oil in it. The bottom of the sump is spotless clean aluminum. I don't think these lil' engines care one bit.
You actually change the oil ... THAT is what is most important to these engines. Most lawnmowers go a decade with no oil change ... DIE ... and get replaced.
My lawn mower was purchased new in Oct 2004; wrote that in black sharpie on it. I've never changed the oil; it's still honey colored. I DO check the level, it actually has a dipstick. Full disclosure, it's stored in a heated garage, and I actually HAVE a lawn, so it's NOT used in dusty conditions. Starts every spring on first or second pull...BTW, it has Amsoil SS 5W30 in it.
I'm impressed you should do a UOA on it, the commercial grade oil is pretty impressive you should look into it, heavy ZDDP dosing