C4 Tech/Performance L98 Corvette and LT1 Corvette Technical Info, Internal Engine, External Engine

Which oil?

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Old Aug 23, 2010 | 05:17 PM
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Default Which oil?

I'm up for an oil change, am thinking royal purple... What grading? 10-30? Or 5-20? Or anything else? Recomendations? I live south of tx, where it's scorching hot outside... I'd appreciate it if someone helped me with the oil thAt can withstand the heat.. I think 5-20 becuz the haynes book n engine says that grade... Help please
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Old Aug 23, 2010 | 05:25 PM
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I would go with 10w-30. The thinner oil is for newer cars or much colder climates.
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Old Aug 23, 2010 | 05:35 PM
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I thought so, but kinda wanted to follow the book and engine cap. I was informed that a 1030 was a better choice for the heat, THANKS now I'm for sure buying a 1030
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Old Aug 23, 2010 | 05:35 PM
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10w-30 is what the manual calls for. I like 5w-30 synthetic blend in my 1989. Valvoline makes a good one for older or high millage cars that will condition your seals.
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Old Aug 23, 2010 | 05:55 PM
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How does the 530 run in hot climate?
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Old Aug 23, 2010 | 06:00 PM
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Heavier oil is usually a good thing for really hot climates. 10w-30, 10w-40, or even 20w-50 are all options. Synthetic is known for it's extra ability to fight the stress of high temps (like you describe).

Royal Purple HASN'T tested that well in wear tests. It's also over-priced IMO. Put at least one or two quarts of synthetic with dino. IOW, a blend or 100% synthetic should serve you well. I also think all the brands are acceptable. But, I'd let price and leaks influence my decision.

IOW, don't ignore lower-priced options than Royal Purple and don't be afraid to use heavier weights -- especially if you have oil leaks while running synthetics.

Note: Synthetics are more likely to leak in older cars because of their uniform molecular contruction. And, they aren't necessary for adequate protection.

Last edited by GREGGPENN; Aug 23, 2010 at 07:45 PM. Reason: Fixed error -- bold and underlined.
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Old Aug 23, 2010 | 06:10 PM
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Originally Posted by L98RedVette
How does the 530 run in hot climate?
The same as 10w-30. The low end viscosity rating will give you a bit quicker pressure on a cold start. It's hot where I live we have had 49 days over 90* in a row and no nights under 70* since June 7th.
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Old Aug 23, 2010 | 06:23 PM
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I'm talkin about 110 degrees average! And 90 at night!
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Old Aug 23, 2010 | 06:28 PM
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Originally Posted by L98RedVette
I'm talkin about 110 degrees average! And 90 at night!
The low end viscosity wouldn't make any difference if it was 140* in the day and 120* at night. Your car operates with a oil temp around 230*.
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Old Aug 23, 2010 | 08:01 PM
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Originally Posted by BADDUCK
10w-30 is what the manual calls for. I like 5w-30 synthetic blend in my 1989. Valvoline makes a good one for older or high millage cars that will condition your seals.
What manual is that? My 89 manual calls for 5w-30. Though I use 10w-30.
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Old Aug 23, 2010 | 09:22 PM
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Originally Posted by joshwilson3
What manual is that? My 89 manual calls for 5w-30. Though I use 10w-30.
The owners manual has a chart with multiple grades listed. 10w-30 is in the middle. The oil cap does say 5w-30 however. Use whatever you like.
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Old Aug 24, 2010 | 07:58 AM
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The manual in my '92 lists 5W-30 synthetic as the preferred weight, so that's what I use.
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