Originally Posted By: MinamiKotaro
I have used Delo 15w40 and 5w40 in all my vehicles with great success. I wanted to try the 15w30.
I used it in the Bug, a full fill. The engine leaked severely. It was so bad, I figured I needed a new sump plate gasket. I went ahead and changed the oil (Mag1 5w40 CJ4/SM) while I was at it. No leaks.
Fast forward a couple or three months. It was the first time I had to top off, which was a new record. I used my leftover 15w30. I had to top off again in about a week, then next week, for a total of about two quarts. Hmm. Then the engine started leaking like crazy again. Hmm.
I started using Delo 15w40 for top off, instead. After about a quart, no more leaks, and I haven't had to top off in over three weeks.
I like Delo, but not the 15w30 due to that experience. I will stick with 5w40 or 15w40. I have not used 10w30 or straight 30.
That would indicate to me that there was/is some unique chemistry in the SD 15W-30. Some sort of ISO-polymerization that acted like old PAO based synthetics (they could soak through glass...). That makes it all the more intriguing
And now that VR-1 is gone from Calif, maybe SD is the new kid on the block for hot-rod motors in the Golden State ...