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Old 04-11-2021, 07:54 PM   #1
AnthonyG
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Default Synthetic Oil?

I use 5w-30 Synthetic Oil in my other vehicles & have used for many years & like it. I truly believe I noticed improved performance & what I’ve read it does reduce wear. I haven’t tried it on my 8BA but am considering it. Thoughts?
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Old 04-11-2021, 07:59 PM   #2
GB SISSON
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Default Re: Synthetic Oil?

Thoughts? Oh no an oil thread!
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Old 04-11-2021, 08:06 PM   #3
Jack E/NJ
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Default Re: Synthetic Oil?

I've switched to WalMart's 0W-20 full synthetic in my 21-studder 2 years ago. It had been running 5w-20 synblend since being re-done 10 years ago. Jack E/NJ
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Old 04-11-2021, 08:18 PM   #4
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Default Re: Synthetic Oil?

After my racing days were done, I found I had 2 cases of Mobil-1 15-50 synthetic left over. I am running it in my '51 with no problems.
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Old 04-11-2021, 09:36 PM   #5
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Default Re: Synthetic Oil?

Jack E/NJ & tubman, I’m familiar with many of your threads / posts & respect your knowledge. I wanted to get some opinion on it & you both helped solidify it.
Thx
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Old 04-12-2021, 08:18 AM   #6
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Default Re: Synthetic Oil?

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I have used this in my Ford 8N and my ‘41 coupe, to slow down the smoke coming out the exhaust pipe. Overkill maybe but it makes me feel better.
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Old 04-12-2021, 08:50 AM   #7
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Default Re: Synthetic Oil?

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Originally Posted by corvette8n View Post
I have used this in my Ford 8N and my ‘41 coupe, to slow down the smoke coming out the exhaust pipe. Overkill maybe but it makes me feel better.
The Valvoline VR-1 is great break-in oil, as it contains a good amount of zinc, which is needed for flat tappet cams. But it does not contain much detergent, so sludge build up could be a concern if you expect to run the engine for 50,000 miles.

For changes, I now run one quart of VR-1 with four quarts of any good detergent oil.
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Old 04-12-2021, 09:19 AM   #8
19Fordy
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Default Re: Synthetic Oil?

I have been told that synthetic oil is more prone to leaking than conventional oil.
TRUE or FALSE?
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Old 04-12-2021, 09:35 AM   #9
TomT/Williamsburg
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Default Re: Synthetic Oil?

In my experience this is true - over time it finds or makes leaks. Had a 2000 Honda that I ran synthetics oil in. After about 8 months I developed a leak that mechanics said was the rear made n seal - the b expensive proposition. I had read about the sing synthetic oils in older cars and the subsequently leaked. Switched back to conventional oil and the leak went away.

May not work in all instances/situations but it seems to be prone to leak older cars.

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Old 04-12-2021, 11:16 AM   #10
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Default Re: Synthetic Oil?

I could pour it in my 40 engine and watch it leak out as it was idling. rear slinger did not sling it back too good, dripped out front seal--switched back to 20w50 kendal and have been using it since
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Old 04-12-2021, 04:03 PM   #11
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Default Re: Synthetic Oil?

The oldest car I’ve put it in is my ‘67 442, rebuilt 10k miles ago, no leaks. Ran over 130k miles in my ‘98 BMW M, no significant leaks. Also in all my new cars with success. Just put it in the 8BA, guess I’ll find out 🤔😬😁
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Old 04-12-2021, 04:14 PM   #12
Jeff/Illinois
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Default Re: Synthetic Oil?

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Originally Posted by alanwoodieman View Post
I could pour it in my 40 engine and watch it leak out as it was idling. rear slinger did not sling it back too good, dripped out front seal--switched back to 20w50 kendal and have been using it since
That Kendall oil you are running also has ZDDP in it.

Most of the guys around here that race use it.
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Old 04-12-2021, 04:57 PM   #13
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Default Re: Synthetic Oil?

I think that synthetic oil is the final exam for the class on installing rope seals.
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Old 04-12-2021, 08:12 PM   #14
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Default Re: Synthetic Oil?

I use synthetic in my 39 V8. I have not put a ton of miles on it, but seems fine. I also use it in my Model As.
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Old 04-12-2021, 11:38 PM   #15
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Default Re: Synthetic Oil?

I use AMSOIL 10-40 with zink in my 51 F1.
Also in my MGB.
I hardly ever have to add, no leaks, no smoke.
At first you may find it will use oil and gradually quit.
It will make your engine run slightly cooler.
I like it because I don’t have to change oil so often.
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Old 04-13-2021, 12:17 AM   #16
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Default Re: Synthetic Oil?

I personally think the reports of leaks or no leaks are personal perception and specific to the observed engine. I don't think anyone can point to a scientific study of the question, unless sponsored by an oil company with sales at stake.
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Old 04-13-2021, 06:51 AM   #17
mfirth
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Default Re: Synthetic Oil?

I've heard that syn is fine in a new build, but to switch from regular to synthetic in an older engine is when leaks can happen. Still like Wolfs Head in an 8BA .......
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Old 04-13-2021, 07:19 AM   #18
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Default Re: Synthetic Oil?

Ran 8100 miles in 26 days cross country and back. Used half a quart and sent a sample for analysis and the short story was, try 9000 next time. Mobil synthetice extended mileage 10-30. I probably could have run the Walmart brand and gotten the same results.
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Old 04-13-2021, 08:36 AM   #19
Jack E/NJ
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Default Re: Synthetic Oil?

My old 21-studder was a heavy drinker in the olden days. Went through 2 gallon cans of this premium labelled parafin wax about every 2K miles. But never needed changing and reasonably priced at less than $2 at WesternAuto. I don't think it cleaned too well as it lubed though. Jack E/NJ


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Old 04-13-2021, 06:28 PM   #20
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Default Re: Synthetic Oil?

Quote:
Originally Posted by GB SISSON View Post
Thoughts? Oh no an oil thread!
Thoughts....I love it, I get a good chuckle and grin when we talk about oil. I love the stories, back and forth on this subject. I'm a regular 20W50 guy

Honestly fellas, if we keep the oil level between ADD and Full on the dip stick no matter what it is, I think we will make it to and from our desired destinations.

Hey life is short, get out there and enjoy/drive those old Fords this summer and keep the oil level...Level.
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