oil recommendations 1931 model 57

[07 HD]

looking for what oil I should be using type and weight for 1931 model 57

[Robert Engle]

I use 10-40 in my 32 Buick.  Just watch your oil pressure.  If it drops when warm, increase the oil weight.  Some people switch to synthetics, but I prefer to change the oil regularly.

 

Bob Engle

[raydurr]

Originally it probably used SAE 30wt. My 1929 tends to like 40wt.( oil pressure wise anyways). I currently use modern 15W-40 diesel engine oil. Since my 1929 has roller cam followers , I am not concerned with adding zinc. Im pretty sure the diesel 15w-40 oils have high zinc already.

[Morgan Wright]

In the old days they used 40W in the summer and 10W in the winter. They also used latex for tires.

 

Use Modern 10-40 and forget about it. Change it often.

[Ben Bruce aka First Born]

To add to what has been said,  the cheapest oil you can buy is better than the best was when your car was new.  

 

  Ben

[07 HD]

thanks all, I have 15w40 rotella stocked up for my truck might try that.

living in Arizona not to worried about cool weather

 

 

Edited June 25, 2021 by 07 HD (see edit history)

[Marty Roth]

I've been using Shell Rotella 15W-40, just like in my Diesel tow vehicle,

It still has some zinc, and our '37 seems to do very well with it, as does our '41 Caddy.

The engines in both are unrestored originals.

[Str8-8-Dave]

1 hour ago, 07 HD said:

thanks all, I have 15w40 rotella stocked up for my truck might try that.

living in Arizona not to worried about cool weather

Another vote for Rotella 15-W-40.  I use it in my 31 60 series car.  I will say the starter complains when the weather gets cooler but I usually fog with Sta-Bil fogging oil about that time and let it simmer on the battery tender until spring.