Petroleum vs. Synthetic

[reubenator]

I have a 97 chevy s-10 with a v6 vortec engine with 71000 miles on it. What advantages are there to me switching to synthetic oil at this point? Should I stick to petroleum based oils?

[mturner1]

Originally Posted by reubenator

I have a 97 chevy s-10 with a v6 vortec engine with 71000 miles on it. What advantages are there to me switching to synthetic oil at this point? Should I stick to petroleum based oils?

Well, if the engine is in good shape, with no leaks, You may want to try a XL motor oil from Amsoil. My dealer says this a good oil to try, because it does protect better than petroleum, but doesn't have the level of detergents in it that other synthetics do. Reason I say this is that synthetic oil can cause seals to leak. This is not a defect in the oil, but rather it is cleaning deposits off of your seals, that have accumulated over time. Seals tend to shrink over time, and the deposits prevent the leaks. Plus Amsoil XL motor oils are designed to be used for six months or 7500 miles, whichever comes first. Amsoil also gives a warranty against oil related failure, so you really can't lose. I have more modern vehicles, and am changing my once a year or 25 k. Not using XL, but Amsoil 10 -30. I change filter at six months or 12,500 miles. This oil is warranted too! Sorry to be so wordy, but check out my dealer's website www.lubedealer.com/jtubbs for more info!

Stick to petroleum if this car is in questionable condition, though, plus do an engine flush prior to switching!!