Studies show that only 15 percent of us actually read the operator's manual for the new products that we buy. Despite these statistics, it's a good idea. Why? Because the operator's manual contains valuable information about routine maintenance checks. One example: the five-hour oil change with lawn mowers. The crankcase oil on a 4-cycle engine should be changed after the first five hours of use. That's to flush out little bits of metal that naturally occur when the piston rings are seated. After that, most people can just change the oil every spring or every 25 hours of use, whichever comes first. To change oil, follow the directions in the operator's manual. Keep the manual handy as it is a valuable resource for caring for your mower, whether it's new or old.