5w-30 vs 10w-30 3.1 engine

[mazzov]

All,

First post to this forum and looking for some insight.

I have a 96 lumina with 83k on it. Runs good. It was previously used by my wife at about 7k a year. Now I use it at about 25k a year. It states on the oil cap to use 5w-30 oil. I never really though about changing from that being that the car was used for local driving only. Now that the car is used everyday at a minimum 75 miles a day I am starting to lean toward using a 10w-30.

Any feedback would be appreciated.

Vince

[jeffcoslacker]

Personally, as soon as the warrantee expires, I go to the heaviest oil specified as acceptable in the owner's manual for the temp range I operate in. I have used 10W30 synthetic in the '97 since it had 40K on it, it has 116K now and runs like new. Prior to that, it ran on 5W30. The only exception I would make is if you live somewhere that is unusually cold in the winter, in that case the 5W30 will get to the top faster on cold startup in the winter. I also feel that the heavier grade is better for extended highway operation. Some may differ with my opinions, but I can't argue with my success. I also run Slick 50 every 50K miles, have for 20 years, and have had engines last over 300K with it. Have not had an internal part failure in all that time. Have had a timing chain slip on a nylon coated sprocket that was nearly toothless after 174K.

[richtazz]

I agree with Jeff. The switch to 10w30 will have no ill effects unless you live in Alaska and it gets below -15 degrees for extended periods of time where you live. I used to swear by Slick-50 myself, until Quaker State bought them out and cheapened up the formula, resulting in losing the claim of reducing wear for 50,000 miles.

[dwalmop]

what about dura-lube or other competitors?

[richtazz]

I used to have a picture of an engine clumped up with Dura Lube. I no longer believe in any of the oil treatments with solids in them. Lucas is a nice product, as it is all petroleum based, and will not clog passeges or filters.

[dwalmop]

I've used lucas before, and it really quieted a somewhat noisy engine down. It seems so thick though, I didn't feel comfortable adding it at first

[jeffcoslacker]

Lucas IS good stuff. Just don't put it in a wet-clutch motorcycle. Anything else, it's great.

[quaddriver]

Always run a 3.1 (T or U code) on 5w30. Use nothing else. I dont care where you live.

[jeffcoslacker]

Gotta love a direct order without any explaination.

[Kh531339]

I work at a quick lube shop. I always but in Valvoiln Dura-blend 5w/30. THen i but in Lucas Oil Stabaliser. I havent had any trouble and it runs great. It dosent really matter what weight of oil u use. BUt during the winter u might want to go with the thinner because of cold start ups.