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Austin A30. What Engine Oil
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simonA30



Joined: 19 Jul 2018
Posts: 24

PostPosted: Thu Feb 27, 2020 12:22 pm    Post subject: Austin A30. What Engine Oil Reply with quote

I know I need 20w/50 mineral oil, but the prices vary so much. I am a retired retailer, and know one thing for certain, you do NOT get what you pay for, it just doesn't work like that. The oil in my 1954 A30 is now two years old, although still clear, as it has only done a few hundred miles in this time. Some people say it should be changed every year regardless of use, others may say two years, whilst there is a line of thought that says modern oils won't deteriorate in the sump like old oils did. Anyway, I'm not taking any risks, and am going to change it. The question is, with the very low mileage I do, is it really worth putting in an oil that costs £30 for 5 litres, when I can buy an API rated oil for less than half of that ?
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Rick
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Joined: 27 Apr 2005
Posts: 22447
Location: UK

PostPosted: Thu Feb 27, 2020 12:34 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

I tend to stick with something from a recognised brand, but don't pay all that much attention to which brand it might be. I think regular changes are probably more important, especially if the car isn't being hammered up and down the motorway. Filter change too. I don't go for the super-cheap 20/50s, just a few £ more gets something decent.

Others opt for synthetic, it's one of those subjects where everyone has their own opinion.

RJ
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Cargy



Joined: 01 Aug 2014
Posts: 22

PostPosted: Thu Feb 27, 2020 1:14 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

You could ignore the opinions, choose 124 pages of objective science by getting hold of a copy of Richard Michell’s 2011 book “Which oil? – Choosing the right oils and greases for your antique, veteran, classic or collector’s car”, Veloce Publishing.
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JohnDale



Joined: 19 Mar 2008
Posts: 790
Location: Kelvin Valley,Scotland

PostPosted: Thu Feb 27, 2020 4:21 pm    Post subject: engine oil Reply with quote

Hi Simon, I have used Mannol Safari German manufactured 20/50 oil, API SL/CF for classic cars currently @ £17.49 per 5ltrs delivered. It is available from
lubriagecarpartsaccessories, via eBay, item 303081769185. I use this in both my cars,'58 Zephyr & '76 Granada & have used it in many other classics over time. I have never had any problems with it although I do change oil & filters annually. (Just for your info) Regards,JD.
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alastairq



Joined: 14 Oct 2016
Posts: 1954
Location: East Yorkshire

PostPosted: Thu Feb 27, 2020 4:59 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

As an example....
https://www.classic-oils.net/Classic-Oils-Heritage-20W50

https://www.classic-oils.net/Morris-Golden-Film-20W-50

An alternative dealer I use as well
https://www.opieoils.co.uk/

Don't forget a new filter, for what they cost?
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alanb



Joined: 10 Sep 2012
Posts: 516
Location: Berkshire.

PostPosted: Thu Feb 27, 2020 9:18 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

Halfords classic 20/50,
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Ray White



Joined: 02 Dec 2014
Posts: 6315
Location: Derby

PostPosted: Fri Feb 28, 2020 12:01 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

Hello Simon. Personally, I think it is wasteful changing the oil after just a few hundred miles. If, as you say, it is clear then leave it. I have driven many thousands of miles when I had my A30 and the engine was kept in good condition with oil changes at 3000 miles.

It is a different matter with brake fluid which should be changed every two years regardless because it is hydroscopic. Engine oil is not.

Incidentally, I always used Duckhams 20/50 but I don't know if the green stuff is still available.
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Rick
Site Admin


Joined: 27 Apr 2005
Posts: 22447
Location: UK

PostPosted: Fri Feb 28, 2020 8:50 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

Ray White wrote:
...

Incidentally, I always used Duckhams 20/50 but I don't know if the green stuff is still available.


I've a feeling that it's been re-introduced in the last year or two.

RJ
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ukdave2002



Joined: 23 Nov 2007
Posts: 4105
Location: South Cheshire

PostPosted: Fri Feb 28, 2020 10:49 am    Post subject: Reply with quote

I use Morris Golden Film SAE 20W-50 Classic Motor Oil 5 Litre, a trusted brand, on offer see below at £11.75 for 5L, normally £27

https://tinyurl.com/uqk4opd

there is £4 postage, but the same if you purchase 1 or 5 cans.

Dave
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JohnDale



Joined: 19 Mar 2008
Posts: 790
Location: Kelvin Valley,Scotland

PostPosted: Thu Mar 05, 2020 4:57 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

Hi Alanb I believe it's Comma 2050 redressed in new clothes for Halfords as they don't make engine oil,all the best,JD.

alanb wrote:
Halfords classic 20/50,

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Ray White



Joined: 02 Dec 2014
Posts: 6315
Location: Derby

PostPosted: Thu Mar 05, 2020 7:55 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

Nothing wrong with Halfords Classic / Comma 20/50 or such like. Ideal for the A series.
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alanb



Joined: 10 Sep 2012
Posts: 516
Location: Berkshire.

PostPosted: Thu Mar 05, 2020 8:40 pm    Post subject: Reply with quote

Just bought 10 litres of Morris golden film 20-50 £28 including shipping as per Ukdaves post https://tinyurl.com/uqk4opd
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