Lower unit oil during winterization

[flytact]

First, thanks to everyone who posts and replies to this forum. What a great help you've all been.

I've always wondered why it is recommended that we change the lower unit oil during winterization. What effects are there if I change it in the spring before splashing?
I'm in MD and we definately get some freezing. Is it the water that may be in the unit that shouldn't freeze? Did I just answer my own question?

[tripleb]

Hey flytact,

I think you have answered your own question Which brings up a point ..... if you or anyone else has enough water to freeze, expand, and burst the lower unit, there is a larger problem.