Oil recommendation

[Tom in SW VA]

First of all, I realize that this question is asked many times during the year and I am sure that has been answered as many, but here goes...........

What is the recommended weight, detergent or non-detergent, and brand of oil recommended for a 81A Flathead V8?

I've always been a Pennzoil man, but need your advice.

Thanking you in advance...................................

[Mick/mo]

Most will say any 15w40 . 30wt will do just fine above 30 or 40 Deg. 10w30 will lube almost anything also. If it's old and worn with lots of sludge in it use a non detergent. Like an old boat mechanic told me one time anything but water, and nothing,

[Tom in SW VA]

Bbt

[53ash]

I run 20w50 (with zinc and etc in it.) in my 50. It's got quite a few miles on it. My Merc always had 40 wt with STP. It's pretty darn hot here most of the time and not really very cold in the winter. Hugh

[1937ford]

I use KENDALL 15W 40 It has a lot of (ZINC) in it compared to other brands. It has worked for me for years. Good luck!

[Frank The Plumber]

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I have to say that I really am impressed with the information on Gibbs, I took a long hard look at the Gibbs website and it's a very good product. I am seriously thinking of switching to it. I do say that you should read all of the information on the site as it does have a few requirements that need to be met.

[53ash]

Frank What is Gibbs? Gibbs Racing? I would like to read the info. Thanks

[Frank The Plumber]

Yup, If you go to the HAMB, hehehe, go look at the alliance vendor list, on that list is gibbs, Joe Gibbs racing developed this oil, it's really impressive stuff, has plenty of ZDDP for solid lifter cams, but it is a synthetic type oil so you have to read all that the site offers, I guess there is a thing called additive clash that can really mess up an engine. It's not cheap but good stuff never is. At the very least I learned a lot about oil.

[53ash]

Thanks I'll check it out.

[hombres ruin]

I go with the 20w /50 brad penn oil.It has more than enough zinc and made in the u.s.a.But alot depends on your block,old or rebuild? Then their is the whole synthetic causes leaks argument.Oil is a really tough and opinionated topic.Joe gibbs oil is also ans excellent product.Research is the key.

[frenchy dehoux]

I am using Castrol 20/50 in my 1932 Ford Lincoln V12 powered engine.

Frenchy

[01aford]

I use 30 detergent in my rebuilt flathead.

[paul2748]

10/40, 20/50, 15/40 - all good. Name brands like Castrol, Rotella T. Detergent