1930 Studebaker Commander 8 Oil Capacity and Filter

[RowdyRuggles]

I want to change the oil in my 1930 Studebaker Commander 8. Does anyone know how many quarts it requires? I even have the car manual and it talks about changing oil, but doesn't give the capacity. Also, I am sure I won't be able to find an oil filter, what should I do about that?  Lastly, what is the best type of oil for that car. I have attached a photo to see the oil filter.

 

Thank you!

 

[Gary_Ash]

I don't recognize the filter cartridge on your engine, but it's clearly old enough that it hasn't been replaced in decades - if ever!  To have something that looks OK for the period, get a Fram F4 filter housing, though those were first used about 1938.  You can still buy the P4 cartridges for it.  

 

See this post for some info on 1930-ish oil filters.  See this:

 

 

Oil capacity should be 8 quarts without the filter, maybe 9 with a filter.  Check the dipstick.  A modern 10W-30 oil will be OK.  Many forum members would recommend that you drop the oil pan and clean out any sludge after draining the oil.

[RowdyRuggles]

Thank you!

 

[29StudiePrez]

Rowdy,

Just ran across your post, although its been a year, Hopefully you didn't throw away that filter on the side of the motor. It's called a "pancake" filter (also know as a "Hardy" as that's who made them) and it is what was on the car originally. It's meant to be a throw away and replaced with another one like it. Most guys who want their cars looking original with that pancake filter on it, just block off the end of the connection that goes into the filter so the oil flow straight by it, and they just change the oil more frequently. If you didn't throw it away, still have it, and are not going to keep of use it, let me know. I also have a 1930 Commander 8.