Hi MC
For clarity here's an extract from the oilman's email to me (sorry if my post may have confused)........
........ even at a low mileage a small amount of contamination from the combustion process is enough to start the degradation process. The engine manufacturer has a distance / time oil change interval which is based on the oil working in the engine protecting it against corrosion etc. even when it’s not being used.
An oil change maintains the properties of the oil in keeping the engine protected and lubricated ( its cheap insurance really ). I would advise against starting the engine and running for short periods, this does more harm than good as condensation is formed which can create acids in the engine – best to take the car and give it a ½ hour run to keep everything well protected and burn off any moisture that has formed in the engine over time whilst stood. Also, good idea to change the oil before laying up as that ensures the oil is clean whilst stood.
