Engine oil again

[nkaminar]

I don't mean to start another discussion about engine oil, but just to relay some information.

Here is what Terry Burtz says about engine oil in his "Builders Guide."

"As a minimum, we recommend that 10W-40 or 20w-50 motor oil be
used both for break-in and thereafter. Better oil is available like Mobil 1
15w-50 (< $25 for 5 qts. at Walmart) or you can use 10w-60 full
synthetic which is even better."

[Kevin in NJ]

Well there is no real discussion to be had with these instructions.

A brand new engine that is not the original engine and built to much different specs is having a recommendation for a certain type of oil.

None applies to the original engine.

Personally I would like to hear the reason for full synthetic. My current understanding from oil experts is that synthetics are only really an advantage in tight tolerance engines and high temps. I do not think either apply with the Burtz engine, but they know better as they engineered the engine so I would not question their requirements.

[chrs1961815]

Something that plays a big role in engine oils is the clearances inside. Thicker oil won't provide sufficient lubrication in very tight clearances. All I know is that I was told to use 5w30 in my rebuilt insert engine because it works well with the clearances. I do however run 10w30 instead!

[Sunny the Model A]

OH NO, don't open that can of worms again! you want to start a war?

[rotorwrench]

There is no war yet. The manufacturer is the one who sets the standards for the lubricants and other service materials for their product. It's as simple as that. That's all I'm reading out of this. Now if Mr Burtz is referring to a Ford built product then fire away.

[Big hammer]

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Follow the engine builders advice or you won't a any recourse if you have issues, period!

[Jim Brierley]

Always follow the manufacturer's instructions! I grind cams and sometimes get questions about what valve clearance to use, this after my stating what clearance to use! Go figure!

[1929]

I just use what the rebuilder suggested-Valvoline Racing Oil 20w50.

[Ruth]

Originally Posted by nkaminar

I don't mean to start another discussion about engine oil, but just to relay some information.

Here is what Terry Burtz says about engine oil in his "Builders Guide."

"As a minimum, we recommend that 10W-40 or 20w-50 motor oil be
used both for break-in and thereafter. Better oil is available like Mobil 1
15w-50 (< $25 for 5 qts. at Walmart) or you can use 10w-60 full
synthetic which is even better."

Let us not forget that the Burtz engine is pressurized also, unlike the stock engine that has a gravity/splash system.

[Jonvee]

AES engine builders recommend 10w30 or 5w30 for their engines. I use 10w30.

[hazelhoff]

Read “Richard Widman Oil” if you are willing to teach yourself

[Synchro909]

I have always used 20W50 in my Model A engines. I have been wondering what I should use in the Burtz engine. Now I know - the same as the others.

[Model A Ron]

Just use Shell Rotella 15w40 T6.....only way to go for a Model A or a Model T

[pbishop]

I would go with the 'builders' recommendation. One thing I would add is Lucas for its adhesion properties.


I personally have used Castrol 20/50 for decades (Florida) in my cars and in my 31 Coupe (with Lucas) and have had exceptional results in my foreign and domestic vehicles.

[pbishop]

One last thing I failed to state - 'A lot of good advice has been posted in the various replies from the members here.'