Does oil have a "shelf life"?

[creia]

I have a 25+ year old 8 oz. sealed container of "Oregon 2 cycle chain saw engine oil". Is this oil still any good to use?
Thank guys,
Michael

[bobodu]

I'd use it...

[Mek-a-nik]

I'm sure today's oils are of better quality. "Oil is cheap, engines are expensive."

[bgsengine]

I vote with bobo, as long as it is suitable (ISO and API classifications, JASO, too) for the application where it is to be used - Although, in our shop, since we always have factory fresh oil on the shelf, such a bottle of old oil would be relegated to the carb bench or 2-cycle bench to be used as assembly lube, etc.

[creia]

Thanks guys!
I noticed on the container the recommended mix ratio states 40:1. Did they have that high of a ratio 25+ years ago? Maybe this oil is not as old as I thought?
This container of oil was inside the carrying case of the Homelite chainsaw that I was asking about in my other thread.
Michael

[bgsengine]

Sometimes you can find a date code or date on the bottle if you look closely (perhaps just an inkjet print) - research the UPC Code on the bottle perhaps - 40:1 is indeed that old 25 years ago was only 1989, and they had 40:1 mix oil in use before that, so it is possible the oil IS that old. - Another tip, look at the API or ISO or JASO service classification, which can clue you in to the oldest possible date it might have.

Oil DOES have a shelf life , but it is far longer than gas or kerosene, but it does not necessarily stay good forever... It *remains* oil, but the quality of the oil is not indefinite, so anything older than a few years old, is used as an assembly lube.

[creia]

Thanks Brian,
There is no API, ISO, or JASCO classification on the container.
There IS a P/N 31064
There IS a UPC Code 36577 00177
FYI: The container is the old "cardboard" tube with tins on each end (one end has a "pop-top" ring) just like automobile motor oil used to come in back in the day.
The PRICE (sticker) on the top lid is $ 1.19 (for 8 oz.)
Regards,
Michael
Sidebar: I'm inclined just to spend a few bucks and get a NEW small container of oil and not take any chances.

[bobodu]

People worry too much...
I never put anyone's eye out with a BB gun or fell on a pair of scissors.

[creia]

People worry too much...
I never put anyone's eye out with a BB gun or fell on a pair of scissors.

Agreed.
As it turns out, we ended up using the old oil...
and my son has the saw running. You can read all about it in my other thread.
Michael

[Dan Swami]

no
oil lasts years
formulas separate
that a mixed formula