Is an annual oil change necessary?

[Rooster in the Grove]

I put 37 hours on my new Mercury 90/Bennington this season. Do I really need to change the oil, fuel filter and oil filter? Can I just add stabilizer to the fuel and call it a day?

 

[Jack M]

I would ,it doesn't hurt . I have mine done every fall . ( I dont get to 100 hr per year ) Did you do the 20 hour service ?

 

[Rooster in the Grove]

No, I skipped the 20 hr because it was late in the season. 20 hour became the 37 hour service.

 

[Jack M]

No, I skipped the 20 hr because it was late in the season. 20 hour became the 37 hour service.

Yes , it should be changed .

 

[KC24]

I read somewhere if you dont change your oil at the end of season your leaving contaminants etc to sit in the motor that cause rust and other harmful situations. It spoke to me so I do it. Hope that helps.

 

[AuthorizedUser]

This is my oil at 60 hours. I would absolutely change it annually at the minimum (depending on the length of your season, you may want to change more often). My lower unit lube was beautiful, but you need to change it see if there is any water intrusion or excessive metal shavings. The fuel filter I'm not so sure about - it looked great when I replaced it, but for a couple bucks, why not?

 

[BigKahuna]

I change mine every fall when the season is over.... Also the lower unit grease and fuel/water separator....

 

[Rooster in the Grove]

This is my oil at 60 hours. I would absolutely change it annually at the minimum (depending on the length of your season, you may want to change more often). My lower unit lube was beautiful, but you need to change it see if there is any water intrusion or excessive metal shavings. The fuel filter I'm not so sure about - it looked great when I replaced it, but for a couple bucks, why not?
View attachment 31378

 

[Rooster in the Grove]

I agree you all. Just thought, maybe I am over zealous....but I am not.