I use older lawnboys and never have to check the oil. Just mix, fill, and go. Every once in awhile I drop the float bowl to drain any water out that may have accumulated. Takes all of 5 minutes.
So much nicer, plus it makes power every 2 strokes instead of every 4, has fewer moving parts, and has less maintenance. I use the same 40:1 mix in my lawnmower, weed eater, leaf blower, and whats left over at the end of the year goes in my truck.