Changing oil

[Frodo]

Originally Posted by njbray

I like to use large Puppy Training Pads layed out around my oil container. The soak up any drips or spills. I also drop the filter onto a pad - they can soak up a lot!
Also check oil filter.

That's a great idea! I've used newspaper...but invariably (as soon as I start!) the wind kicks up and they're all over the front yard. NOT absorbing used oil..

[PatM]

I have been convinced that changing oil before winter storage is best.
What about changing oil again in the spring with no startups or miles on the oil..
Does it oxidize just setting in the crankcase?
Is this a bad thing??

[JFP in PA]

Originally Posted by PatM

I have been convinced that changing oil before winter storage is best.
What about changing oil again in the spring with no startups or miles on the oil..
Does it oxidize just setting in the crankcase?
Is this a bad thing??

Changing it again in the spring does not hurt anything, but is also not necessary. Oil breaks down from contamination during the engine running, so changing it before putting the car up for the winter does not significantly alter the oil, but putting the car away with used oil leaves sensitive components exposed to acid and other combustion by products which can deteriorate them. Change the oil, put the car away, and do not start it, and you will be fine come spring.