Claybe
Denver, CO
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I have a 25 foot majestic which I (unfortunately) only use about 7 to 10 times a year and only drive about 2,000 miles at most. I have been changing the oil once a year (synthetic high mileage blend). But, I was wondering if I could go longer? Or, should I be changing it more often? Thoughts?
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Turbo Diesel Dude
Green Mountain, NC
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Joined: 01/10/2005
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Once a year should be OK, but that's just me. JMHO
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Ivylog
Blairsville, Ga. USA
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Joined: 06/30/2004
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If you are going to change once a year no reason to use expensive oil. Using that good a oil I'd change it every 5K miles, but then that's just me. I'd spend $25 on a oil sample as then you'll have a better idea about the health of your engine and that you can go to 5K or even 7.5K miles. As hard as we work RV engines there is not any moisture in the oil so acid buildup is not a problem.
This post is my opinion (free advice). It is not intended to influence anyone's judgment nor do I advocate anyone do what I propose.
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skipnchar
Topeka or somewhere else
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Joined: 12/17/2003
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Most manufacturers have both a "standard oil change frequency" and a "heavy duty oil change frequency". RVing is always a HD type of use so I'd recommend you use the HD oil change schedule.
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2004 F-150 HD (Traded after 80,000 towing miles)
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wcjeep
Tacoma, Wa
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Not sure about synthetic. Regular oil has time lapse capsules designed to release lubrication over time or mileage. Whichever comes first. In your case it sounds like time arrives first. I wouldn't go beyond a year with synthetic. Its like tires. Regardless of mileage they are only good for 5yrs.
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ron.dittmer
Northern Illinois
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When driving 2000 miles per year, then one oil change per year will be just fine.
For us with our 2007 E350-V10, last year was around 1500 miles. This year will be less. Because our motor home is kept in climate controlled conditions year round, I am okay going two years between oil changes with full synthetic Mobile-One.
Our problem lately is that we can't get enough use from our motor home given too many life financial challenges. Last year we wrapped up our promise with college support. This year was a very costly, way over budget, roof/soffit/eve project on the house. Trip money went to that instead.  Next year looks better.
2007 Phoenix Cruiser model 2350, with 2006 Jeep Liberty in-tow
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mlts22
Austin, Texas
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Don't forget generator oil as well. It doesn't take as much, but it is a good idea to change it out for full synthetic when you change the oil on the main engine.
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Jayco-noslide
Galesburg,Il., USA
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Good question. It would be nice if you could find some good research or at least talk with an engineer instead of just the "opinions" you will likely get here. You drive so few miles the ques. is difficult. Generally speaking, consumer reports has found that we don't need to change oil as frequently as we grew up thinking. But, I think once a year is reasonable and going another 6 months wouldn't save a whole lot.
Jayco-noslide
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Coach-man
Florida
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The big problem with oil is when it sits! You would think that someone who puts 15 - 20K miles per year would be considered "heavy duty" oil change cycle? But no he would be much better off than you who only puts on 2K per year and the RV sits most of the time!! Oil will collect moisture which when combined with the by products of combustion will form hydrochloric acid, which will eat the bearings and seals in the engine. If I were you I would switch to a non synthetic oil and change it twice a year to be on the safe side. But thats just my $0.02 worth!
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falconbrother
North Carolina
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I drive about the same as you in a year and I change mine in the fall every year when I change the generator oil. I use dino oil because I know I'll never put the miles on to justify synthetic oil.
When I bought the MH the previous owner had been running 20-50 in the 454 Chevy. The factory spec is 10-30 so, I run 10-30. Although the tranny fluid is still nice and red I'm changing everything this year. Tranny, anti freeze, brake fluid, and both oils generator and engine. It is an easy job to do them all. I suppose I should do power steering too.
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