On Wed, 19 Dec 2007 20:16:49 -0700, "Michael Pardee"
<michaeltnull@[EMAIL PROTECTED]
> wrote:
>Thanks to you and miles, C.R.
>
> I'll certainly pass along the recommendation for 5W-30 synthetic. I know
the increased
>detergency reputation of synthetic is controversial in some corners, but
I'm
>a believer. Combine that with the onset of winter and it's a no-brainer.
Mike,
Note that both Miles and I suggested the 0w30, not 5w30. The bulletin
he referenced specified Mobil-1, but I would not hesitate to consider
the Amsoil 0w30 also. That's all I run in all of our vehicles since
Amsoil first introduced it. It's got the hot as well as cold weather
protection. The bulletin Miles referenced spelled out the reasoning
in details that I was not familiar with. Good post.
As for controversy with respect to "detergency reputation of
synthetic" oil, I have not heard that previously - other than if a
high-mileage engine is "sealed" by sludge and varnish after rubber
gaskets and seals harden or crack, introduction of a good synthetic
will "create" leaks by removing the unintentional sealants (sludge and
varnish). That's certainly not a fault of the oil, just a fact in the
engine (ironically probably due to the owner not having changed oil
and filter regularly throughout the life of the vehicle). Synthetic
oil is not a cure-all for every problem. It assumes the engine (or
transmission, or whatever part) is in sound condition in the first
place. If not, it's not worth putting in the initially-expensive oil
until or unless the repairs are done first. Other than that, I know
of no downside to good quality synthetic oil if used as directed and
intended. Though usually more forgiving, synthetic oil can be misused
and abused just as petroleum oil can be.
C.R.
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