A dreaded oil question....
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Joined: Aug 2006
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A dreaded oil question....
I have a 78 with a stock L48. I've put about 200 miles on it in the last year. The engine has 81,000 miles on it. It could use new valve seals (winter project) but otherwise it runs perfectly. My question is, how often should I change the oil in a car that's not being driven much? I do start it and go round the block at least once a month, even in winter. What oil/weight should be used?
Also, what winterizing routine is recommended (Illinois winter)? Last year I filled it up with gas and disconnected the battery, and usually started it every couple weeks. It got to be in heated storage from January-April, but I don't think I can do that this year. It'll have to be in the detached garage this year, and it does get below freezing out there.
Thanks for your input. Love the forum!
Also, what winterizing routine is recommended (Illinois winter)? Last year I filled it up with gas and disconnected the battery, and usually started it every couple weeks. It got to be in heated storage from January-April, but I don't think I can do that this year. It'll have to be in the detached garage this year, and it does get below freezing out there.
Thanks for your input. Love the forum!
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 2,577
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From: Long Island New York
I would change the oil and filter every 6 months for the amount of driving that your doing and use any good quality 10w30 oil. For winterizing I would check the quality of your anti-freeze and make sure it is good down to -30 degrees, Drain your fuel tank or use Stabil in it. I would keep a battery tender on it or run it once a month if you can but make sure you get it up to operating temp and run the heater as well. You want to run it long enough to make sure that you get all the condensation out of the motor and exhaust system to prevent any rust or corrosion issues.
CF JASOC Member
Joined: Feb 2006
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From: Downtown Annapolis, MD. The Future is where we all have to live. Let's not screw it up.
St. Jude Donor '08-'09-'10-'11
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Joined: Jan 2006
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From: Crossville TN
For older engines that aren't driven very much, synthetic oil is the best "all around" choice. Synthetics don't "oxidize" like organic oils, which means sitting around doesn't create a problem. It has MUCH better wear characteristics, so engine reliability is higher. But you might have a few more drips, seeps and weeps. Synthetic oil doesn't cause leaks....but it will flow through smaller openings. So, if your seals are marginal, it might drip a bit. You won't have to change it but once a year (or two, if you change filters on a shorter cycle).
