I changed the oil in my 496 HO this year as I usually do every year and got to use it a total of 20 hours before the lake went to drought levels with no boat ramps to launch. Hopefully 2012 will be better. Is it safe for me to keep the oil in the boat with that few hours on it for next year 2012. I assume so but want to check with the "experts" here on the forums. Thanks for your time. Dave

i wouldn't consider myself an expert but i change every year regardless of hours, i only got 15 in this year because of flooding, go figure right?

It would depend on how the 20hrs was run. If it was all WOT or close to it, change it. If it was mostly cruising 3200rpm and a couple wot hits each outing you are good to run it another year.

good for another year..

for as little as a oil change cost...i'ld just change it for the peace of mind...

Change it.

Change it, condensation and other other contaminants sit in and with the oil, I'd change it at least once a year even if you only put 5 hours on it. Never taken an engine apart and said "wow this guy changes his oil way too often"

+1.

The oil is the last thing that gets changed in my boats, regardless of hrs, just for that reason.... contaminates.

Really, this is where to look to try and save a FEW bucks?

change it