Which oil to use in a splasher?

Jon B

I'm curious to know what owners of the 'splasher' Hudsons are using for engine oil? I've heard different recommendations from different people over the years. I run a multi-viscosity detergent oil in my '37 because it was rebuilt and the gunk cleaned out, but which viscosity to use has always been a puzzle to me.

hudsonsplasher1

Jon;

I've been using 10W-30 for 20 years, and seems to work just fine. I usually buy what's on sale.

Gene.

[Deleted User]

Hi Jon---I personally use a straight 30 weight detergent oil since I do not run these cars in the winter. But, I am very particular about using the same brand each time as the additives in the various brands can differ & possibly create a waxey sludge. Cliff Minard.

Unknown

SAE 30 HD Once a year I add Mystery oil with it for one oil change.

Geoff

We've been through all this before! You will get as many variations on this theme as their are participants. Vintage engines don't thrive on vintage oil. Use a good modern multi-viscosity oil.

Geoff.

Unknown

I agree with Geoff. Oils have improved so much lately why not take advantage of their superior lube qualities. If my engines were sealed up better I would use nothing but synthetics. My 2 centavos.

junkcarfann

The latest (June2006) issue of HOT ROD magazine has a good article about oils. It seems that a lot of flat tappet camshaft failures have occurred in the past few years. These are racing camshafts with higher spring pressures and faster lift rates that stock engines such as old splashers. However, wear is wear, and whatever can help avoid wear is noteworthy.

A major cause of the increased war is the reformulation of motor oils that occured during the same time period. Traditional motor oil contains additives to prevent wear, but these are being significantly reduced by the government because of emission control issues. The additives create a "sacrificial chemical coating strong enought to keep parts separated to reduce wear", according to a Quaker State Oil representative.

The article states that diesel truck oils such as Shell's Rotella, which is available at Wal-Mart and auto supply stores, still contain the necessary amounts of those additives. Also, racing synthetic oils typically have them.

I am not sure if straight 30W ever had those additives, but for sure it no longer has them in the necessary amounts.

Just for the record, I use Quaker State 20W-50 with absolutely no problems in two splashers. Next oil change will be Shell's rotella 15W-40 with the additives.