assuming you are talking about oil of viscositys around 0W to 10W the
reason for premature oil seal failing is that the oil is very thin. This
does not make it a good replacement oil for any classic car. They are
just not designed for this kinda oil. Lubricating qualitys are fine, its
just that you'll experience all kinds of dreaded leaks.
Other experiences anyone?
Gernot
> Now, on to the question Du Jour... Is synthetic oil good for your
> car?
> (WARNING -- some Volvo content follows)
>
> I have used only Mobil 1 in my '92 Volvo 240 since I have owned it
> (making
> the last payment this month). Just this week, the Service dept.
> replaced
> the rear main oil seal for the 2nd time. The 1st time was only a year
> ago.
> Is this because of the synthetic oil, or did they put a defective
> seal in
> last year? The service writers (a couple of regular "car guys") both
> claim
> that the under-current of rumor about synthetics is wrong. This
> under-current has it that synthetic oil doesn't cause the rubber seals
> to
> "swell", so any wear in the sealing area can't be compensated for by
> the
> chemical reaction of petroleum and rubber. What's the opinion of
> those of
> you out there? I'd love to run my TR6 on synthetic oil because I feel
> that
> it is a better lubricant over a wider range of conditions, and it sure
> does
> keep the inside of the engine clean! I also know that any LBC doesn't
> need
> much excuse to start leaking all over the place. I suppose that the
> trade-off would be: if it leaks, keep throwing oil-dry on the garage
> floor
> and keep an eye on the dip stick -- it's worth the extra $$$ to reduce
>
> friction and heat, and to keep the interior of the engine "surgically
> clean". It's coming on time for my "Spring oil change", so this isn't
> just
> an academic question... Thanks.
>
|