Posted by Paul on August 03, 1999 at 16:05:50:
In Reply to: Motor oil preferences: straight or multi-weight? posted by K Bishop on August 03, 1999 at 09:58:51:
{{I know I've seen this topic discussed before but I don't remember the pros and cons. What formulation of motor oil should be used in the old 230 flatheads? I know some still use 30w while others use a multi weight. Which is best for the motor? Any opinions? }}
I've used multi-weight oil in many old cars through the years. The trick is to only put it in when you change the oil and filter (if it has one). I generally use Havoline 10W-30 as it is used in all my other vehicles and I buy it by the case. This way I don't have to buy different oils for different vehicles.
Something to watch out for though, the oil pan needs to be clean. If you aren't sure, pull it out and clean it. Multi-weight oils are usually detergent oils and if you have non-detergent with a lot of sludge, you will break it loose and clog up oil passages. In addition, if the sludge has a greyish color, it's lead build up from years of using tetraethyl lead fuel. This is toxic and you want to use rubber gloves and dispose of it properly. Don't just throw it in the yard.