New guy with Zinc question

[UrgentCareGuy]

Hi Guys!
I just rebuilt a 1988 351 W Engine. I put a LOT of hours in to the build and want a good outcome.

I have the Zinc additive from Lucas for the oil. Is this a good idea?

I will use anyone's synthetic oil now : ) i.e.: Wal-mart Syntech, Mobil 1, Valvoline..whichever is the least expensive. I am a former Mobil 1 Junkie : )

Thanks!
Brit

 

[bepperb]

Well, with a heavier oil you may not need the additive. Most 40 and heavier weights will have 1200~1400ppm already. It's the SM -30 and -20 weights were you would probably need that additive.

What were you thinking? What's the output on the engine, and how will it be used.

 

[Steve S]

The best choice for your engine would be a HDEO oil . For example Chevron Delo 400 Shell Rotella Mobil 1300 etc. Syn oil is really not necessary in most instances.

 

[crazyoildude]

there is nothing wrong with regular motor oil the oil companies spend milions of dollars on formulas adding "other things" is just a no no unless of course you know more about oil than the people that make it..

 

[bepperb]

"there is nothing wrong with regular motor oil the oil companies spend milions of dollars on formulas adding "other things" is just a no no unless of course you know more about oil than the people that make it.."

You understand, of course, that the oil companies need to make a single product for a wide array of vehicles. A commuter with a Honda Fit and a 200hp/liter hot rod would run the same oil using your logic.

 

[Johnny]

Originally Posted By: UrgentCareGuy
Hi Guys!
I want a good outcome.



I will use the least expensive.



These two phrases should not be used when talking about the same subject. IMHO

 

[UrgentCareGuy]

I just used the least expensive synthetic oil. No major demands on truck with 351w rebuilt to stock.
Originally Posted By: Johnny
Originally Posted By: UrgentCareGuy
Hi Guys!
I want a good outcome.



I will use the least expensive.



These two phrases should not be used when talking about the same subject. IMHO

 

[UrgentCareGuy]

The 351w was rebuilt to stock hp of around 240hp. Looking to pull small boat short distances in future.

Originally Posted By: bepperb
Well, with a heavier oil you may not need the additive. Most 40 and heavier weights will have 1200~1400ppm already. It's the SM -30 and -20 weights were you would probably need that additive.

What were you thinking? What's the output on the engine, and how will it be used.

 

[Johnny]

In that case, no need to use synthetics at all. I would just use a good conventional brand 5W or 10w30. But, I am very old fashioned and set in my ways, so I would use one of the major brands.

 

[D-Roc]

One of the more common brands of 10W30 HDEO will have a good add pack and be a solid choice for what you want, without breaking the bank.

 

[Ken2]

Quote:
It's the SM -30 and -20 weights were you would probably need that additive.
Not exactly. The ILSAC GF-4 spec sets the low phosphorus level. SM does not have a max P spec.

I agree, a dual-rated diesel/gasoline 10w30 engine oil would be great. Chevron Delo 400 is always one of my favorites. Even better, if available, is the ConocoPhillips76Kendall new oils with their Liquid Titanium.

 

[addyguy]

Look for Brad-Penn 'penngrade 1' oils - don't know if they have them your way, but a great oil for you needs!

 

[HyperJinx]

I would use something with a good dose of zddp in your 80's era 351. I like Rotella T 10w30, which I run in my 69 Camaro 350.

Brad Penn also has good zddp levels in their oils.