Reproduction Parts for 1916-1964 Chevrolet Passenger Cars & 1918-1987 Chevrolet & GMC Trucks


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#480971 04/24/23 12:23 PM
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Shade Tree Mechanic
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Is there a special oil I should use in my 54 Chevy Belair original engine?

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Bb54chevy #480972 04/24/23 12:40 PM
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amy good brand of a modern 10W-30 oil


Gene Schneider
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Chev Nut #480977 04/24/23 01:10 PM
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Thanks

Bb54chevy #483107 07/01/23 12:33 PM
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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.
.
(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

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Bb54chevy #483108 07/01/23 01:17 PM
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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.

Bb54chevy #483123 07/01/23 11:13 PM
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If the compression and vacuum readings are good and the engine is not burning oil just keep driving!


Rusty

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Rusty 37 Master #483372 07/12/23 10:45 AM
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Vacuum and compression readings are within range. The exhaust still smokes. Is this normal for a classic?

Bb54chevy #483375 07/12/23 11:08 AM
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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.


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Bb54chevy #483381 07/12/23 03:04 PM
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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 03:34 PM.

Gene Schneider
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