Re: IML: What is the best oil to use in a 100,000 mile '59 413 ?

["JIM LORENZEN" <jdlpdx@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Hi Steve,

I really think I'd stay away from non-detergent oils.  I've always used detergent oil in my '60 and I'm 99% sure that the MS requirement for oil in the Owner's Manual denotes detergent oil standards.  By using non-detergent, especially with the type of use we tend to subject our cars to, one runs the high risk of sludge formation which will almost guarantee the problems you describe in the long run.  Frequent oil/filter changes with detergent oil are the only sure fire way to prevent sludge and grime build up.

I change my oil and filter every three months even in the winter when the cars see little use.

As for oil grade - if you go single viscosity a good 30w should do you fine for summer driving; 20w-50 if you prefer multi-vis to defer to the engine's mileage.  I use Valvoline Max Life in my "senior" cars which is especially formulated for higher mileage engines and I've been very pleased with it.

Good Luck -

 

Jim L. in OR
    '60 Crown 4dr Southampton
    '62 Crown 4dr Southampton

----- Original Message -----

From: webmaster

To: mailing-list@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

Sent: Tuesday, June 05, 2007 11:21 AM

Subject: IML: What is the best oil to use in a 100,000 mile '59 413 ?

I now realize that the problems I have encountered are from changing the oil on my car.  I used a 10w-40w detergent oil and it has gummed up the hydraulic lifters on my car, bending push rods etc.

After having the heads/valves done the culprit was stuck lifters.  In order to not do further damage I will probably use a non-detergent oil which is what was probably there in the first place.  My concern is that keeping a detergent oil inside will only continue to put the grime back into it and cause further problems.

What oil grade should I use for summer driving?  This is the only time I use this car.


Steve Restelli
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