Shell Helix Ultra 5-40 vs Mobil 1 0-40

Not sure what is better, but I seem to recall a recent thread mentioning that Shell has stopped producing the Helix product. Don't know if that thread ever answered the question "now what the hell are we suppose to use?" though.

 

I don't think that there is a lot in it TBH. I use Mobil 1 0W/40 in my daily drivers and Agip 5W/40 was put in my 360 at the last service. I think it is more of a feel good/security factor and a good marketing exercise rather than anything else. I would only use a fully synthetic oil in my cars though.

 

basically if the API specs match you are good to go.
would Mobil Oil be sponsoring the F1 team you would surely have a sticker in your engine compartment saying Ferrari recommends Mobil 1.

 

Lately all the Mobil 1 oils I come across at the stores are all API SM rated, due to EPA limiting how much of Zinc and Phosphorus (PPM) they can blend.
The Shell bottles I have are still the SL, suppose to have more of the Zinc and phosphorus. (Better engine protection)
I would try to stay away form the API/SM rated bottles.

 

I could have sworn that Quaker State was now marketing itself as the oil supplier to Ferrari...

 

For proper additive levels you want SF rated oil. You can get a full compliment of ZDDP in Redline though more expensive, OR you can run the Mobile 1 and add a few bottles of ZDDPLUS.com additive and bring it up to SF levels that way.(No affiliation).

 

I think the use of Shell products in Ferrari is more of a financial arrangement than Ferrari's desire to run the absolute best. There are better synthetics out there offering better performance and protection, Redline and Royal Purple to name a couple.

 

The new oil that Ferrari is recommending is the Quaker state Q horsepower 5W40 full synthetic in replacement of the Shell helix.

Regards, Jim

 

I have seen that commercial numerous times. I believe there was a thread asking if Quaker state was making that claim under license. Never saw definitive answer though.

 

Thank you.

 

Shell owns Quaker state and pennzoil.

 

Have any of you used Castrol? I have heared it is the best oil in the market, racing fluid is number1.

 

Shell Helix foams. The bubbles rise up the filler tube so checking the actual oil level is impossible. Mobile 1 does not foam. This is my personal experience.

 

Anyone looked a one of the Quaker state bottles see what the API rating is??

 

Without looking I would guess SL and/or SM to comply with Federal mandated emissions requirements. A quick trip to the auto parts store would confirm.

 

What if any damage can be done to the F430 engine if I put too much oil in it? What's the best way fix this situation. I know the oil level on the dipstick should be between the two holes, should this be checked with the engine on or off?

 

always check the oil level of an engine with the engine off and let it rest for 15min so all the oil gets back down in the oil pan

 

Very wrong.......the F430 uses a dry sump oil system. You always must measure the oil while the engine is running at idle rpm and the engine must be warm, i.e. when it reaches running temperature which is between 80-90degC.

 

If you've overfilled your F430 engine, don't run it till you've drained the excess oil............you'll cause a mess.

 

exactly. the oil level is measured in the tank, NOT the pan.

 

I only used the Shell Helix Ultra in my 360. The dealer uses Mobile 1 in my F430. The Shell was approximately $18/bottle where the Mobile 1 is around $4.

 

Has anyone found the Quaker State Q-Horsepower 5W-40 in any known commercial stores in the US? It appears the 5W-40 is a rare request. Any luck?

DLC

 

Tarek is correct. On the 430 the engine should be on and the temperature hot(running temp). It's in the Manual!