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Type of oil to use

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Old 12-17-2001, 10:06 AM
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tdellaringa
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Default Type of oil to use

My oil was low so i put in 3 quarts of 10w-40. As am I putting the dipstick back in I see "use SE oil" on the stupid stick. Did I just make a horrible mistake or no?

Tom
Old 12-17-2001, 10:13 AM
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Neo Fender
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Default Re: Type of oil to use (tdellaringa)

API Categories Industry Definition

SA No Performance Requirements - Straight Mineral Oil
SB Minimal Scuffing and Wear Protection Requirements
SC 1964 MS Warranty Requirements
SD 1968 MS Warranty Requirements
SE 1972 Warranty Requirements
SF 1980 Warranty Requirements
SG 1989 Warranty Requirements
SH 1994 Engine Tests Only
SH & "Starburst" 1994 Warranty Requirements
SJ & "Starburst" 1997 Warranty Requirements

I think that the requirement may be backward compatible. In other words, SJ will meet SE requirements, etc.
Old 12-17-2001, 10:22 AM
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Tom73
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Default Re: Type of oil to use (tdellaringa)

SE was the state of the art back then, but much better stuff has come out since. Just use a good modern oil and you will be okay. If you want to be great use a good synethic like Mobil 1.

tom...
Old 12-17-2001, 04:43 PM
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Warp70
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Default Re: Type of oil to use (Tom73)

I and the owner of the Corvette shop I frequent, recommend Synthetic as well. I use Quaker State 20W-50W Synthetic regularly without any issues.
Old 12-17-2001, 07:38 PM
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redwingvette
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Default Re: Type of oil to use (Warp70)

Warp,
How high is your oil pressure at 2000rpm, That seems like some thick oil to run for the street. I have had people tell me to use a straight 40 or a 10W40 for summer time and 10W30 for cooler times.
Brian 73 L-48
Old 12-17-2001, 08:05 PM
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Ben Taylor
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Default Re: Type of oil to use (Tom73)

If you do use synthetic you might need to replace your gaskets, cars that don't leak with regular oil usually squirt out the sythetic.
Old 12-17-2001, 08:59 PM
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79MakoL82
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Default Re: Type of oil to use (redwingvette)

Down here in Florida, you want to use a heavy oil on an old car. I use 20W50 dino oil also. My pressure is up around 55-60 psi at cruise speed. Around 35-40 at idle. It's warm year round down here, so you can run these heavy oils even in winter. HOWEVER, in MI, I wouldn't suggest it in winter. Also, in terms of regular oil vs. synthetic, if your car is a daily driver and has good sealing, use the synthetic. If your car is an occasional driver or higher mileage with some worn parts, use the regular oil.
Old 12-17-2001, 09:39 PM
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Default Re: Type of oil to use (79MakoL82)

Redwingvette,

As 79makol82 stated my oil pressure is fine. I don't have a formula for the oil I use though, I just asked Bob at motion Corvette here in Orlando and that's what he recommended. As for wear, my car has over 100,000 miles and no leaks with the synthetic, so I don't think you can pin all cars under one label. I guess the best advice is to use what works for you, but it's always nice to get second opinions from the Corvette enthusiasts on these boards.

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