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Joined: Nov 2022
Posts: 51 Likes: 2
Shade Tree Mechanic
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OP
Shade Tree Mechanic
Joined: Nov 2022
Posts: 51 Likes: 2 |
Is there a special oil I should use in my 54 Chevy Belair original engine?
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Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 30,701 Likes: 141
ChatMaster - 25,000
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ChatMaster - 25,000
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 30,701 Likes: 141 |
amy good brand of a modern 10W-30 oil
Gene Schneider
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1 member likes this:
Ed_Osier |
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Joined: Nov 2022
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Shade Tree Mechanic
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OP
Shade Tree Mechanic
Joined: Nov 2022
Posts: 51 Likes: 2 |
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Joined: Nov 2004
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ChatMaster - 1,000
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ChatMaster - 1,000
Joined: Nov 2004
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Has the engine been rebuilt?
If so, you need to add a zinc additive to replicate the original levels in older grade oils, to prevent cam and tappet damage. My engine builder even gave me a quart can to add with my break in oil. ZDDP is the additive I used at each oil change after. You can find various brands at auto parts stores.
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(New oils have reduced zinc levels to prevent catalytic converter damage.)
However, if you're running an original motor that hasn't been rebuilt, you're good to go with any modern oil without adding zinc. The zinc is engrained into the metal over time with old engines.
Rick
"Never time to do it right the first time, but always time to do it over."
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Joined: Nov 2022
Posts: 51 Likes: 2
Shade Tree Mechanic
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OP
Shade Tree Mechanic
Joined: Nov 2022
Posts: 51 Likes: 2 |
Thanks Styleline51.
The engine has not been rebuilt yet, so I’ll save this info for when it does. What’s your opinion on when a engine will need to be rebuilt? I have 60,000 miles on it, but no history on it.
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Joined: Dec 2007
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ChatMaster - 4,000
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ChatMaster - 4,000
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If the compression and vacuum readings are good and the engine is not burning oil just keep driving!
Rusty
VCCA #44680
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1 member likes this:
Ed_Osier |
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Joined: Nov 2022
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Shade Tree Mechanic
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OP
Shade Tree Mechanic
Joined: Nov 2022
Posts: 51 Likes: 2 |
Vacuum and compression readings are within range. The exhaust still smokes. Is this normal for a classic?
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Joined: Jan 2006
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Hall Monitor ChatMaster - 7,000
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Hall Monitor ChatMaster - 7,000
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It's not "normal" but neither is it "abnormal". By that I mean not all 54's smoke but it's not uncommon to see one smoke some. My 53 will puff on startup sometimes. Unless you're fogging mosquitoes as you drive most folks don't worry about it. They just keep a couple of extra quarts of oil in the trunk.
VCCA Member 43216
Save a life, adopt a senior shelter pet.
1938 HB Business Coupe
1953 210 Sedan
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Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 30,701 Likes: 141
ChatMaster - 25,000
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ChatMaster - 25,000
Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 30,701 Likes: 141 |
The 1954 235 tended to give exhaust smoke. Especially when backing off in high gear.
If it puffs blue smoke after strating the engine it is the valve stem seals.
If it consumes less than a quart of oil in 500 miles it is fine,some 54's did that when new.
Last edited by Chev Nut; 07/12/23 02:34 PM.
Gene Schneider
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Ed_Osier |
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