Which oil to use?

[Another Bob]

Read a question about what oil to use in old Farmalls.I am wondering about using 10w-30, which I have seen recommended. However, for a 1941 Model M engine is that really best? Back in those early days, only non-detergent oil was available,so when modern detergent oil was used in these old engines, it cleaned out the pistons to well and you ended up with a smoking engine.Or that was my experience with antique automobiles.I was thinking of using straight weight 30?
So,opinions please>

 

[LP GAS ONLY]

I always use the IH LOW ASH 30 W. It is a little more money, but, it is better for the valves. Stick a piece of carbon under an exaust valve and it gets more expensive
Gary

 

[CenTexFarmall]

Just like medicine, oil is technology driven.

Most modern oils have greatly reduced levels of ZDDP, due to catalytic converter issues and because modern engines have roller cams and rockers and stuff. The ZDDP is good for preventing metal to metal contact in boundary lubrication situations such as flat tappet cams and shaft/ball socket rocker arms.

The modern oils that do have sufficient levels of ZDDP are diesel type oils, typically a 15w-40 and racing type oils.

You can buy additives to boost ZDDP levels buts it's easier and probably cheaper to just pour in diesel type oil. Chevron Delo 400, Shell Rotella T or Delvac 1300 will fit the bill in a 15w-40, giving multi-grade protection and high quality base stock.

If you read and understand the labeling, they're intended for mixed fleet use which means gasoline and diesel.

 

[CenTexFarmall]

Take a look at this website:
www.bobistheoilguy.com

In spite of the hokey name, this website is a goldmine of information about oil and lubrication.
Make your way to the forum section and start reading!
People in the lube oil industry hang out there
bobistheoilguy

 

[TxFarmallFan]

I've always used HD-30 in my H, with no trouble at all.

 

[Steven f/AZ]

15w-40 diesel oil goes in all of our tractors, thousands of hours with no trouble or consumption issues.

 

[Bob M]

Same as Steven f below, I've run 15W-40 in all my old tractors for 15+ years now. Even my 62 year old Minnie-Mo UTU - which for the first 50 years of it's life saw only non-detergent oils - experienced no difficulties after switching to the modern detergent oil.

 

[MIKE THOMPSON]

I ALWAYS USE THE USED OIL OUT OF MY CARS AND PICKUPS 50 PLUS YEARS WITH NO TROUBLE AT ALL AND NO WEAR OTHER THAN NORMAL AFTER THAT MANY YEARS OF WORKING

 

[charles todd]

(quoted from post at 14:51:30 05/08/08) I ALWAYS USE THE USED OIL OUT OF MY CARS AND PICKUPS 50 PLUS YEARS WITH NO TROUBLE AT ALL AND NO WEAR OTHER THAN NORMAL AFTER THAT MANY YEARS OF WORKING

WOW! My grand-father put used motor oil in chainsaws for bar oiling. As for putting contaminated, used motor oil in a good, running tractor is just plain CHEAP.

 

[CNKS]

You can buy 30W in detergent or non-detergent. Use detergent. My opinion is that 10W-30 is a little light for for the tolerances in a letter series engine. 15W-40 is what I use. 30 is ok if it is above freezing.