Community Forums

bjcarpetguy · 03-30-2014, 09:13 PM

I have an '87 Gulf Stream with a 454. I am going to do oil change before hitting the road. Engine has about 60K.
What would be the recommendations for oil type.
Will be going to Eastern Wa, Idaho, onto Mt. Then in late summer begin heading south to Az by mid Oct.

Was wondering if a Synthetic would be a good choice, So far have stayed with Penzoil 10w 40.
Thanks

38Chevy454 · 03-30-2014, 09:55 PM

Synthetic is a good choice, it has better high and low temp properties vs regular dino oil. You motorhome is a tough environment and it runs under good load with subsequent heat, so synthetic is a good choice.

chboone · 03-30-2014, 10:16 PM

Here are two FAQ's from Amsoils web site about switching to synthetic oil in an older engine. I switched my 99 V10 to synthetic at 38,000 have 52,000 on it now. Never had any problems or oil leaks.

I am considering replacing the petroleum oil with AMSOIL synthetic motor oil in an engine that has 50,000 miles on it. I have heard that synthetics might clean the engine and cause plugging of the oil filter and passageways. Is this true?
Answer:*Absolutely not. Switching from petroleum oil to AMSOIL synthetic motor oil in routinely maintained vehicles will not cause clogged oil filters or passageways, regardless of mileage. Sludge, which is caused by poor-quality oil and neglected maintenance practices, would have to be present in significant amounts to plug oil filters and passageways. If an excessive amount of sludge is present in an engine, it is just a matter of time before oil filters and passageways clog, regardless of the installation of AMSOIL synthetic motor oil.

Is there a recommended procedure for changing to AMSOIL synthetic motor oil?
Answer:*There are no special requirements for changing to AMSOIL synthetic motor oil. However, in older vehicles with high mileage, it may be advisable to use*AMSOIL Engine and Transmission Flush*first. This will ensure the engine is clean and free of accumulated contaminants that may affect the service life of AMSOIL synthetic motor oil. Installation of an*AMSOIL Ea Oil Filter*at every oil change is also recommended.

Chuck

vsheetz · 03-30-2014, 11:05 PM

Mobile 1.

Walt Bennett · 03-31-2014, 07:26 AM

Wallymart is the only place you can get extended range Mobil 1 I think. I used that exclusively in my '02 Chevy 8.1L although I changed oil 4 - 5K miles. Had 145k with probably 50k towing our 27' TT and zero engine issues when I had to get something heavier duty for the new/old 5er.

scenic route · 03-31-2014, 09:53 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by vsheetz

Mobile 1.

You betcha...@ $26.00 for a 5 quart container of 10w-30 at Wal-Mart, I'll stay with Mobile 1.

I switched to synthetic at 18K...51k now with no problems.

(Hear that knocking on wood?)

Arch Hoagland · 03-31-2014, 10:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Walt Bennett

Wallymart is the only place you can get extended range Mobil 1 I think. I used that exclusively in my '02 Chevy 8.1L although I changed oil 4 - 5K miles. Had 145k with probably 50k towing our 27' TT and zero engine issues when I had to get something heavier duty for the new/old 5er.

I have been using the Mobil 1 Extended range oil in my motorhome for many years.

The extended range is good for 15,000 miles between changes although I only run it for about 4,000 to 5,000 miles.

I have never found it anywhere else besides Walmart.

It's not cheap but when it's over a hundred degrees out I like the added quality of a good oil.

Bill Dean · 03-31-2014, 11:57 AM

It really doesn't matter which brand. However, you may want to consider a "high mileage" product for your older engine - the additives help keep the seals soft thus lessening potential oil leaks & extending the life of the seals.

HicksRA · 03-31-2014, 04:20 PM

Another vote for Mobil 1.

gruelens · 04-01-2014, 12:35 AM

A gas engine in a MH is a severe service application. I would switch to a full synthetic oil and not return to dino oil. I personally used to use Amsoil, it is a fine product. As a fulltimer, I was in a locale years ago and had trouble finding the product. I decided to change to Mobil 1, due to the fact that it is easy find just about anywhere. It is my opinion, any name brand full synthetic will make your engine happy. Be sure to use the manufacturers rated weight oil.