Oil, synthetic vs. standard

Francesco- Ferrari thought so when they put out this bulletin recommending Shell 5W-40 or 15W-50 synthetic for all earlier Ferrari engines. My opinion is the Shell is not that great because of foaming issues. I use Valvoline 5W-40 synthetic and others swear by Redline and Mobil-1 European blend (used by Porsche and Mercedes) in 5W-40 or 0W-40. Do not worry about the 5W or 0W being too thin for your car. On synthetics, that is mostly flow characteristics when cold.

Any comments on oil usually start a cat fight, so we shall see.

Taz
Terry Phillips
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Synthetic is definitely the way to go Francesco. Sensible advice from Terry concerning 0W and 5W grades not being an issue. I would advise a 0W - 40 / 5W - 40. If you are using the car hard (eg: track use) and don't use it in a cold climate a 10W - 50 or 10W - 60 will be ideal.

 

I like Brad Penn for my BB512i... www.bradpennracing.com

 

You hit the nail on the head. Most US synthetics are no better than crappy junky generic oils. Look at the Zinc and Phospherous amounts before you select any oil. Most all US oils are now only 800 ppm and that is not enough.

1200 to 1300 ppm will keep your engine protected. The Euro formulas don't have the EPA mandated lesser amount of ZDDP so that is a good choice. Brad Penn is good. Although Mobil 1 reintroduced their 20/50 as a racing oil and has 1300 ppm. If you want more, their VT Racing oil has 1600/1800 ppm.

 

Ok, there are just so many threads on oil and soooo many details one could almost become a chemical engineer here....
Question. Own an 84 QV Mondial Cabrio, 25K miles, Southern California, street use, no racing....which oil to use? How often to change?

I know it's all subjective but would like to hear opinions....I don't think I'm highjacking the thread as it's in line with original question...just specifics about weather, use, etc....Tnx

 

Miguel- Change oil and filters annually and use a good 5W-40 synthetic and you should be fine. I like Valvoline 5W-40. Read others' advice on oil types. There is no correct answer, only opinions. If you have a trusted mechanic, use what he recommends, but understand why he is recommending it.

My car uses all Valvoline lubricants and coolant. My technicians love Valvoline products, and I understand why they like each one. Yours may love something else. Redline comes up frequently as great oil and great transmission oil.

Taz
Terry Phillips

 

Thta's one of teh reasons to use Brad Penn in classic Ferraris...it has a high content of ZDDP...just like the old days...

 

Francesco

Make sure its the european blend...that is VERY important

 

Also,

does anyone know the ZDDP of Pennzoil Ultra which is "recommended" by Ferrari?

 

Pennzoil and Quaker stat own by shell.