the_scotsman

I have an 94 6 cyl EF Fairmont Ghia that has done 245,000 km.
WHich grade of oil should I be using in the summer heat?
I currently have Pennzoil 15W50 synthetic. Is this a bit thin for summer heat on a car with this many kms?
It is due a change soon so any input much appreciated!
Also, which brands are best, if any?

Thanks!

STROKEXD

Multigrade 15W50 means the oil behaves like a '15' grade oil when cold and a '50' grade oil when hot.

So to choose the right grade of oil in the summer heat relates to the latter part of the number ie '50', not 15W or 20W.

50 is considered a medium-thick oil already, but you can go to a 60 or 70, especially if your motor is getting a bit tired.

Check out Penrite HPR30 or any others that do a 15W60 or 20W70.

__________________

Soxx

The oil you are using is probably fine, though it certainly wouldn't hurt to use the Penrite HPR15 or HPR30 as 'STROKEXD' suggested.

Rick.

__________________
4L I6, naturally aspirated producing 173.5rwkw.
14.410 @ 96.49mph with street radials.
What's that?..... Did I hear you say TQE power?

TopGhia

Just check your oil consumption. If it starts using a bit, up it to a 20W-60 or whatever. That 15W-50 you are using should be OK though.


cheers

__________________
"I married Miss Right. I just didn't know her first name was Always."

XR_Strider_GuY

Just remember, don't run an oil thats too thick (60 or 70) than necessary. Running too think of an oil will result in the oil pump working harder and seals wearing more than using a lighter oil.

I think standard oil reccomended for an EF is 15w-40, so running a w50 oil will be more than adequete for the heat. Infact i would reccomend going an oil with a lower figure for the bottom number so the engine will lubricate faster on startup.

__________________
Motor May 2001 Quote: "Believe it or not, there are actually a bunch of weirdos out there who reckon a six cylinder is the dux gutz. Bugger it: I'm one of them" :s5

AUII Late Ed XR6 HP T5 Venom- Full Tickford Body Kit, 17in Wheels, Herrod Bi-plane Spoiler, Momo Steer/Gear, T-Series Interior Options, Premium Stereo and a very light-tuned 4.0L I6

(FPV-Tickford Club of NSW Member and Co-Founding Member of 3FB Inc, Ford Forums Food Bandits)