Questions for a 355, Does the brand of oil matter as long as it is a synthetic (I will have trouble finding more exotic brands out here so hopefully Castrol or Mobil 1 will suffice. 10/40 wt correct? Also, will any brand of coolant work as long as it is OK for aluminum engines (and I am assuming I simply dilute it according to temperature conditions)? Thanks, Chris
Factory spec for the oil is a 5w-40 synthetic...a 0w-40 would be an acceptable substitute, but not a 10w-40. Several of us are using the Mobil 1 0w-40. Not sure on the coolant; if you are not going to use the Shell stuff, I would recommend using the BMW brand which is highly thought of, and reasonably priced.
Dealership and the manual recommend AGIP (sp?) synth 10-40 wt. Is there a mail in source that could ship to me or should I just go through the dealership? Chris
They recommend in the manual but the dealership last did my oil change with Shell. you can order oil through the dealership. A lot of people seem to use mobil 1 as it's available at most autoparts store. There is a great thread on oils if you search. Basically someone took the time to compile a lot of good data on different brands.
In the 1940's just plain mineral oil was sometimes used. For my '65 T-Bird they wanted an SA rated oil. That does not mean you have to use oils from back then. Use the most current, highest rated oils, they are way way way better in every respect. The oil for your 355 in my opinion is a 0W-30 or 0W-40 for hotter running. Mobil 1 is a good choice. aehaas
aehaas, Been reading some of the recent detailed posts on oil. Appreciate the info, I went to the local auto store last pm and picked up some Mobil 1 0w-40. I think this will work well for me. Used Mobil 1 in the past for my 993 with good results. Vincent, Hi yes I am in Montana. Chris
I went to pick up some Mobil 1 but could only find 5 - 40 labelled for diesel engines/trucks and SUV's...."ideal for engines that are pushed hard...." Is there any formulation difference between this and the 5 - 40 recommended for the 355's? Regards, Pete
I'm using Mobil 1 0W-30 in my '96 355B and it runs great. Oil pressure is fine. I change it after track weekends.
I'm using Castrol 10 W60 for My M3....$10 a quart Dealership ONLY! what a rip off...I'm sure your oil for Ferrari's are cheaper.
Not if you use the magic, only approved product on planet earth. The cost to the dealers from Ferrari (only source in NA) is about what you are paying retail.
Chris in Montana, You may order AGIP oil at www.performatek.com. Price sounds okay and they have a set shipping charge determined by the cost of your order and it is very reasonable. Ron
I service italian cars and for all italian cars they suggest agip. Now agip is available through your dealer or you can agip and find a rep in your area. I use agip as my regular oil and it works great. www.americanagip.com is the website i think. Ciao for now Nick